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Early Harappan Terracotta Figure Fragment

Early Harappan Terracotta Figure Fragment

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The Early Harappan civilization, c. 3200-2600BC, Sindh, Pakistan.

A captivating terracotta fragment from the Early Harappan period, this piece showcases the artistry and abstraction characteristic of the Indus Valley civilization's formative years. Skillfully hand-modeled, the fragment depicts the head of a zoomorphic figure, rendered in an abstract style that reflects the unique aesthetic sensibilities of early Harappan culture.

The Early Harappan phase, spanning c. 3200–2600 BC, marked the emergence of settlements across the northwestern plains of South Asia, extending into regions of present-day Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India. These communities laid the foundation for the sophisticated urban centers of the mature Indus Valley civilization, noted for their baked brick architecture, intricate drainage systems, and advanced craftsmanship.

Terracotta figurines, both anthropomorphic and zoomorphic, were a prominent feature of Harappan art, offering insights into the symbolic and everyday lives of this ancient society. The early Harappans were skilled potters, with distinct regional styles such as Amri-Nal, Kot Diji, Damb Sadat, and Sothi-Siswal, each identifiable by their pottery and figurine traditions.

This artifact not only exemplifies the artistic innovation of the early Harappans but also serves as a tangible connection to one of the world's earliest civilizations. A remarkable piece for any collection, it embodies the rich cultural heritage of the Bronze Age Indus Valley.

Good condition. Age-related heavy wear, abrasion and corrosion. Rich deposits on exterior. Size approx. 6,5cm x 6,2cm x 6,4cm. 

Provenance: Danish private collection

References and further reading:

The Harappan Civilisation: Its Sub-cultures, Roshen Dalal, The Pioneer, Thursday, 10 May 2018.

Indus Valley Civilization, Mark, Joshua J., World History Encyclopedia, Last modified October 07, 2020 (https://www.worldhistory.org/Indus_Valley_Civilization/).

The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective, Gregory L. Possehl, AltaMira Press, 2002.

The Harappan Civilization, Tarini Carr, Archaeology Online.

Indus Civilization, R.K. Pruthi, Discovery Publishing House, 2004, s. 157.

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