Science

Symbolic clay figurines change our understanding of the prehistoric Middle East

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Briefings

A study published in PLOS One by researchers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem challenges long-held beliefs about the origin of symbolic clay figurines in the Middle East. The research identifies a specific tradition of making these artifacts, which dates back to the earliest known period of their use in the region. This discovery significantly alters our understanding of the cultural and technological history of the area, suggesting that symbolic clay use predates previously accepted timelines.

Key points

• Researchers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, led by Laurent Davin, discovered artifacts representing the earliest known tradition of making clay figurines in the Middle East.
• The study indicates that symbolic clay figurines were used in the region from the earliest known period, challenging previous assumptions about their origin and usage.

Context

This finding is significant because it redefines the timeline of symbolic art in the Middle East, potentially reshaping archaeological interpretations of early human cultural practices and technological development.

Limitations

The evidence is limited to a single study published in PLOS One, which may not represent the full scope of archaeological findings. The study does not provide specific dates for the artifacts' creation, nor does it offer a comprehensive analysis of the artifacts' cultural context or broader implications for the region.

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