Figurine of a Female

myminifactory

Archaeologists have uncovered numerous clay figurines, known as dogū, dating back to Japan's prehistoric Jōmon period (14,000–300 bce). These diverse forms were primarily discovered in northeastern Japan, where a female figurine was unearthed. Some figurines are seated, while others stand upright, featuring heart-shaped heads or round shapes with headpieces. Many have little or no surface decoration, whereas others, like this example of a shakōki or "goggle-eyed" type, boast distinctive large eyes and intricate colour-carved decorations. The true purpose of these figurines remains unknown, but several theories exist. The prevailing theory suggests they served as talismans linked to health and childbirth, and after use, were deliberately broken and discarded, which might explain the discovery of dogū with missing limbs or other intentional breaks. This object was scanned by The Minneapolis Institute of Art.