Anthropomorphic Bone Figurine

Object Information

0000.01.6190
7.6 cm H x 1.5 cm W x 0.7 cm D; 8.8 g
Figurine,
Animal Bone,
Parthian
Iraq,
Seleucia,
150 BCE–200 CE

Description

This bone figurine is one of dozens of similar examples excavated by the Kelsey at the site of Seleucia on the Tigris (Iraq) in the 1920s and 30s. The meaning and function of such figurines is not clear, with some scholars suggesting that they were children’s dolls, while others argue that they served a more religious or ritual function, perhaps as an offering to a deity. The findspots of these figurines does not help to answer the question of their use, as the Parthian inhabitants of this site practiced intra-mural burial, burying their dead in vaults beneath the floors of their homes.

Downloads

The downloadable files are in an .STL format which is optimal for 3D printing. We suggest using a free software such as Meshmixer to edit the file to your needs. Some objects may need supports added or should be hollowed out for the most efficient printing. Any questions about 3D printing should be directed to kelsey.disko.project@umich.edu.

Download STL

Viewer Controls

Touch Controls

Orbit: swiping on mobile or click and drag with a mouse.

Panning: two-finger touch, or dragging with right-click.

Zoom:  pinching on a mobile device or the scroll wheel on a mouse.

Keyboard Controls

Orbit: Up, Down, Left and Right arrows.

Panning: Hold the Shift key and use the Up, Down, Left and Right arrows.

Zoom:  currently not implemented.