Name/Title
CowEntry/Object ID
RC.AC.06.46Description
This mold-made terracotta figurine depicts a standing bovine (cow or bull), shown in side profile resting upon a low, integrated plinth base. The figure displays a rounded, stocky torso with a softly sloping backline, broad flank, and a downward-sloping neck leading into a simplified head with a tapered muzzle and small, projecting ears or horn stumps.
Composed of a warm, sandy buff-to-light tan earthenware clay matrix, the statuette terminates at the lower body in a jagged, fractured break line along the legs and base, where the lower limbs have been severed. Manufactured via press-molding, animal figurines of this type were produced extensively across the ancient Mediterranean and Near East, commonly dedicated as votive offerings in sanctuary shrines to symbolize agricultural fertility, pastoral wealth, or sacrificial supplication.Collection
Randolph College's Ancient CollectionsAcquisition
Source (if not Accessioned)
Dr. Herbert LispcombMade/Created
Time Period
4th-2nd Century BCELexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Primary Object Term
Relic, ReligiousNomenclature Sub-Class
Religious ObjectsNomenclature Class
Ceremonial ObjectsNomenclature Category
Category 08: Communication ObjectsDimensions
Height
12.5 cmWidth
6.2 cmLength
21.2 cmProvenance
Provenance Detail
Donated by Dr. Herbert LipscombAcquisition Method
FoundCreate Date
August 10, 2026