Minoan Goddess or Priestess in the Walters Art Museum, September 2009

Goddess or Priestess


Creator: Minoan (Artist)

Period: 16th century BC

Medium: ivory and gold (Ivory & Bone)

Accession Number: 71.1090

Measurements: 8 7/16 in. (21.5 cm)

Geographies: Crete, Greece (Place of Origin)

Despite the delicate nature of the precious gold and ivory materials, the stance of this small figurine conveys power and strength. It closely resembles ceramic statuettes identified as goddesses or priestesses found in the sanctuary space known as the "Pillar Shrine" within the Minoan palace of Cnossus, Crete. The snakes adorning the figure are symbolic of fertility and regenerative powers.

Text from: art.thewalters.org/detail/25734/goddess-or-priestess/