Ancient Celtic Iberian Solid Cast Bronze Figure of a Male Votary

An Ancient Celtic Iberian Solid Cast Bronze Figure of a Male Votary Wearing a Long Narrow Tunic with Bandoliers Crossed Behind His Shoulders a Twisted Cord Across His Chest His Right Hand Extended and Holding an Offering His Face with Large Prominent Eyes Long Narrow Nose and Full Lips
One arm now lost (repair to break in body)
Black glossy patina
5th Century BC

Size: 11.5cm high - 4½ ins high / 14.5cm high - 5¾ ins high (with base)

Dressed in a tight tunic, this votive figure stands in an attitude of awe and worship. They were produced in provincial workshops, but are full of creativity and imagination. Known in Spain as ‘Munecos: puppets’, they came from sanctuaries and are all similar for the way the eyes are made and in the shape and character of their faces. The sanctuaries were found in South and Southeast Spain and these votive figures have been found scattered around the caves or lying outside them for over three centuries. It is only since the beginning of the 20th century that archaeological excavations have taken place and it is now believed the statuettes are not cult images, but represent offerers in their ceremonial costumes with their attributes.

Ex Private London collection
Acquired September 2000

cf: National Archaeological Museum Madrid has similar examples all found in the Sanctuary of Des Pénaperros

Ancient Celtic Iberian Solid Cast Bronze Figure of a Male Votary