ostracon ancient art
catalogue

East-Greek Potbellied Dwarf, Archaic Period, 530-520 BC

Naked dwarf squatting on a rectangular plinth and holding his hands in front of the belly. The head with big almond-shaped eyes, thick nose and nice archaic smile. The hair on the back with horizontal steps.

This kind of paunchy dwarf figurine is thought to be inspired by the dwarf god Paitakos, the Egyptian patron of children.

For a Rhodian example cf. S. Mollard-Besques, Catalogue Raisonné des Figurines et Reliefs en Terre-Cuite (1954) 38 fig. B221.

Intact, superb quality and condition. Remains of red wash, minor wear in places.

H. 7.6 cm (3 in)

Swiss private collection

880 USD