Cypro-Archaic Terracotta Horse Figurine Fragment

Cypro-Archaic Period I-II, c. 700–475 BC, Kourion, Republic of Cyprus

This exquisite terracotta horse figurine fragment represents the artistry and symbolic importance of votive offerings during the Cypro-Archaic period of Iron Age Cyprus. Hand-modeled with an abstract and stylized form, the horse showcases a protruding top-knot, a stylized mane, and a short muzzle. The elongated body and outstretched legs suggest a galloping motion, capturing the dynamism and elegance of the horse, a revered symbol of status and power during this period.

Cypriots of the Archaic Period crafted simple, handmade figurines with cylindrical bodies, coarse faces, and clay pellets for features like hats, eyes, and ears. Terracotta horse and rider figures were often left as votive offerings at sanctuaries or placed in the graves of the elite, symbolizing the owner's status and invoking protection or favor in the afterlife. Riding horses was a privilege of the upper classes, associated with warfare, transport, and ceremonial purposes.

This fragment likely originates from a larger figurine group, such as a chariot (quadriga) or mounted soldier, common in the sanctuaries of Cyprus. At the sanctuary of Apollo Hylates in Kourion, numerous horse and rider figurines have been discovered, dedicated to the god Hylates, later likened to the Greek Apollo. Similarly, the sanctuary at Avia Irini yielded numerous terracotta war chariots, reflecting the significance of equestrian imagery in Cypriot culture. This artifact offers a glimpse into the martial traditions, artistic expressions, and religious practices of ancient Cyprus, making it a remarkable piece of history and an exceptional addition to any collection of Cypriot antiquities.

Good condition. Age-related wear and corrosion. Chip and nicks. The object is covered with a thin layer of earthy encrustation. Size approx. 10,1cm x 12,3cm x 2,7cm. 

Provenance: According to information, from the collection of professor Dr. Med. Albert Fischer, 1891–1956. Founder and director of the Carlsberg Foundation biological institute, Copenhagen (1932–1956). Albert Fischer acquired antiquities during his travels in the 1930s-1950s.

For a similar examples see:

Chariot group, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 74.51.1800 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/241355)

Figurine, Louvre, Accession Number: AO 32412 (https://collections.louvre.fr/en/ark:/53355/cl010359455)

Figure, The British Museum, Accession Number: 1896,0201.219 (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/G_1896-0201-219)

Terracotta horse and rider figurine (tomb gift), Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford, Accession Number: AN1888.1267 (https://collections.ashmolean.org/object/304807)

References and further reading:

Terracotta Figurines from Kourion in Cyprus, John Howard Young & Suzanne Halstead Young, Published by: The University Museum, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, 1955.

Handbook of the Cesnola Collection of Antiquities from Cyprus, John L. Myres, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1914.

Horse and Rider Figurines from Ancient Marion, Chelsea Walter, Arizona State University, December 2014.