Early Harappan Terracotta Quadruped Figurine

Early Harappan Civilization, Kot Diji Phase, c. 2800–2600 BC, Sindh, Pakistan

A rare and captivating terracotta figurine of a crouching animal—likely feline or dog—dating to the Kot Diji phase of the Early Harappan period. Hand-molded in red buff clay, the piece displays finely rendered details: rounded eyes, upright ears, a short tail, and four conical legs. Its body and head are pierced with horizontal perforations, suggesting it may once have been worn as a pendant or amulet.

Though modest in scale, the figure carries remarkable charm and character. Minor wear to the extremities and a small chip to the muzzle attest to its great antiquity, adding to its authenticity. Such figurines are thought to have served as children’s toys, votive offerings, or protective amulets, reflecting both everyday life and symbolic beliefs within Harappan society.

Compact, tactile, and deeply evocative, this rare survivor from one of the world’s earliest urban civilizations offers an intimate glimpse into the artistry and imagination of the Indus Valley people.

Good condition. Light surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, nicks and chip. Encrusted earthen deposits throughout. Size approx. 9,1cm x 4,7cm x 3,9cm.

Provenance: From the estate of Professor Tore Arnborg (1912–2007), a senior United Nations official who served as head of the FAO in West and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Acquired abroad and brought to Sweden in the 1960s.

References and further reading: 

The Pakistani Collection of Terracotta Figurines in the British Museum,  Irfanullah, Fazal Sher and Amjad Pervaiz, Hazara University Mansehra, Pakistan Heritage 9, 2017.

Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, Jonathan Mark Kenoyer, Oxford University Press, 1998.

Indian Art in the Ashmolean Museum, J. C. Harle and Andrew Topsfield, Oxford: Ashmolean Museum, 1987, no. 6 on p. 6, illus. p. 6.  

Early Indian art at the Ashmolean Museum - Catalogue in progress, Ahuja Naman, 2016, n. 29.1