This collection of 368 carved and incised Neolithic vessel, head, neck, and body fragments of ceramic and stone was received as a generous gift of Harlan J. and Pamela Berk.
Donated in two parts between 1995 and 2000, the artifacts date from 6800-4000 BCE Southern Europe and West Asia. Our collection of these extraordinary and mysterious figures, or idols, produced in these areas over several thousand years, exhibits the interconnections between Aegean and Eastern European pre-historic cultures.
Yugoslovic (vinca)
c. 4500-4000 BCE.
Found in modern day Serbia, East of Belgrade, this collection includes both human and non-human shaped artifacts. Some Vinca heads may be mask replicas - miniatures of larger wooden masks, possibly used for ritual and theatrical purposes. Many of the figures appear to have been votive offerings.
Antolian (kiliya Type)
c. 4500-4000 BCE.
Discovered in the Asian portion of modern day Turkey, these artifacts are known as marble "Stargazers" Because of their facial depictions.
Thessalonian
c. 6800-5600 BCE.
Located in Northern Greece, South of Macedonia, most of these artifacts are female and may relate to fertility and reproduction.