The Iron Age II Figurines and Zoomorphic Vessels of Tel Reḥov

Abstract

Forty-nine Iron Age II anthropomorphic and zoomorphic clay figurines and vessels were found at Tel Reḥov. Clay was an inexpensive material and small figurines were a common item; yet, this small assemblage still holds surprises. All the figurines were published in Saarelainen and Kletter 2020. Here we present a selection of the figurines in order to illustrate their variety and aesthetic appeal, and also to demonstrate the difficulties in studying and interpreting them. What do we see in them? Images of powerful, but nearly forgotten deities? The faces of bygone generations (and of their animals too)? Or, perhaps, portrayals of important priestesses and warriors?