Miniature Altar

Medium: Stone

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:n.d.

Dimensions: 1 1/4 x 1 x 1/2 in. (3.2 x 2.5 x 1.3 cm)

Collections:

Accession Number: 2021.1.119

Catalogue Description:
Small square gray stone with spout, likely representing an altar, possibly a yoni. There is a deep incised rectangle running the periphery of the top surface and then continuing into the spout, suggesting the channel used for draining sacrificial fluids during rituals. At the center is a floral motif carved in very low relief. Arrived identified as a seal, but nature of carving and shape of stone suggests that it was more likely a miniature representation of an altar, possibly to be used when traveling or to serve as an amulet.

Brooklyn Museum