Geometric III

Terracotta statuette of a horse

In ancient Greece, horses were a reflection of status and wealth. They were expensive to maintain, requiring extensive land and upkeep. Thus, statuettes of horses were common dedications in sanctuaries, especially in the Geometric period. They appear in both terracotta and bronze, and in various forms. Some terracotta horse statuettes were dedicated individually, while others were attached to the lids of pyxides (boxes) as handles. The treatment of the feet of this horse makes it likely that the piece was freestanding. H. 11.8 cm x L. 9.5 cm