Anatolian Stargazer Figurine, Ancient Turkey Female Figure Statue

Science Fiction Meets Ancient Turkey | Anatolian Stargazer Figurine

The female form reminds one of an interstellar alien depicted in today's modern films. Between 3300 and 2000 BC, a highly developed culture flourished along the west coast of Anatolia (in contemporary Turkey) and the nearby Cyclades islands. The area was relatively densely populated and was home to numerous fortified settlements that were prosperous due to the burgeoning sea trade. One of the most important aspects of this early cultures was its sculpture, usually executed in the wonderful white marble that was plentiful locally. The stylized female figures appeal to us most.

The almost futuristic Kiliya type figurines, named after the first place they were found in Anatolia, are called Stargazers due to their upturned gaze. Little is known about the meaning of these female figures. Owing to their decorations they might be fertility figurines. However, many were also found in cemeteries where they may have had a ceremonial function. Important artists such as Hepworth, Moore, Picasso and Modigliani were inspired by this entirely unique style of sculpture. 

• Female Geometric Nude Figure replica after original from Anatolia, Ancient Turkey (Kiliya type, 3300-2500 BC).
• Part of the Parastone 3D Mouseion Collection of museum collectibles. Comes with description card. (PN ANA02)
• Made from white resin to look like pristine marble. Black metal base.
• Measures 6.5 in H x 2 in W x 2.75 in D. Weighs 13 oz.

Why Is It Called a Stargazer Statue?

The almost futuristic Kiliya type figurines are named after the first place they were found in Anatolia. We call them Stargazers because of their upturned gaze.

Little is known about the meaning of these female figures. Their decoration suggests they might be fertility figurines. Many were also found in cemeteries, where they may have served a ceremonial role. Each Anatolian Stargazer figurine hints at rituals we can only imagine.

Ancient Anatolian Female Figure That Inspired Modern Masters

Hepworth, Moore, Picasso and Modigliani were inspired by this entirely unique style of sculpture. Its clean lines and simple geometry still feel modern. This Cycladic figurine replica looks right at home on a bookshelf, desk, or mantel. It also makes a thoughtful gift for collectors, teachers, and stargazers of every kind.

• Anatolian Stargazer figurine, a female geometric nude replica after the original from ancient Turkey (Kiliya type, 3300-2500 BC).
• Part of the Parastone 3D Mouseion Collection of museum collectibles. Comes with description card. (PN ANA02)
• Made from white resin to look like pristine marble. Black metal base.
• Measures 6.5 in H x 2 in W x 2.75 in D. Weighs 13 oz.

Explore more replicas in our Parastone Museum Collection.

For More Reading

Early Cycladic Art and Culture, The Metropolitan Museum of Art