Early Byzantine period doll

An early Byzantine period bone doll from about the 4th century. This extraordinary object is the body of a childs doll made from animal bone. You can clearly see the holes for articulated arms and for earrings. She has very clearly carved hair and face features. There is a surface crack - similar to that found in aged ivory - and a section has been reglued lower left othewise in good, stable condition. Interestingly, in many parts of Africa, childrens dolls are still made from animal bone.

Length: 16 cm