Bronze bull
The Minoans often deposited small objects of clay, stone, and metal—such as this bronze bull statuette—in sacred places, most notably caves and mountain-peak sanctuaries, as votive dedications to a deity. The practice—a feature of both ancient and modern religions—was based on the belief that one could communicate with the divine through symbolic gifts, either in the hope that the god or goddess would grant a request or as thanks for a favorable outcome.
The bull may have served as a substitute for an actual animal sacrifice.
The bull may have served as a substitute for an actual animal sacrifice.
Artwork Details
- Title: Bronze bull
- Period: Late Minoan III
- Date: ca. 1400–1200 BCE or later
- Culture: Minoan
- Medium: Bronze
- Dimensions: Overall: 2 3/16 x 2 5/16 in. (5.5 x 5.9 cm)
- Classification: Bronzes
- Credit Line: Bequest of Richard B. Seager, 1926
- Object Number: 26.31.492
- Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art
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Minoan
ca. 1700–1600 BCE
Minoan
ca. 1700–1450 BCE
Minoan
ca. 1600 BCE or later
Minoan
ca. 1400–1050 BCE
Minoan
ca. 1400–1300 BCE
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