A recently discovered clay figurine from northern Israel pushes back the timeline for complex storytelling and artistic expression by thousands of years. The roughly 12,000-year-old artifact depicts an encounter between a human and an animal – a goose, specifically – making it the oldest known representation of such an interaction. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about when and where symbolic art first emerged.
The Natufian Culture and Early Art
The figurine was unearthed at the Natufian site of Nahal Ein Gev II. The Natufians, who lived between 15,000 and 11,500 years ago, were a unique culture. Unlike most societies of their time, they lived year-round in settled villages, hunting and gathering instead of relying on agriculture. This discovery suggests that complex symbolic thought wasn’t solely a product of farming communities, as previously believed.
A Mythological Scene in Clay
The figurine itself is small enough to fit in the palm of a hand. It shows a woman with a goose perched on her back, its wings encircling her upper body. The bird’s head rests against her face, creating a striking image. Researchers believe this represents a mythological scene, possibly depicting a mating between a human and an animal. Such beliefs and depictions were common in later farming communities and hunter-gatherer societies, but this figurine demonstrates they originated much earlier.
Implications for Understanding Early Art
This discovery suggests that the impulse to create symbolic representations of the world – and to explore spiritual connections between humans and animals – is far older than previously thought. The use of clay as a medium may have facilitated this new form of expression, allowing for more detailed and nuanced depictions.
Viewing the Figurine: A Deliberate Perspective
The figurine was likely intended to be viewed from above, so that light and shadows would create a three-dimensional effect. This suggests that the artist carefully considered how the piece would be perceived, adding another layer of intentionality to the work.
Ritual Use: A Possible Interpretation
While the exact purpose of the figurine remains unknown, some researchers speculate that it may have been used in rituals. The discovery of a Natufian shaman’s grave near the site lends credence to this idea. The figurine could have been used to induce visions or conduct ceremonies, further blurring the lines between the human and animal worlds.
This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about the origins of art and storytelling. By pushing back the timeline for symbolic expression, it offers a new perspective on the cognitive and cultural development of early humans. The figurine serves as a tangible reminder that the human impulse to create meaning through art is deeply rooted in our past
