Model of a cart with a human figure
Unknown Artist
ca. 600–480 BCE
Medium
Terracotta
Dimensions
H. 4 1/8 in. (10.5 cm)
Classification
Terracottas
Culture & Period
Cypriot · Cypro-Archaic II
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
Accession Number
74.51.1795
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delightful terracotta model of a cart with a human, standing just 4⅛ inches tall, offers a glimpse into everyday life in ancient Cyprus during the Cyprochaic II period (. 600–480 BCE). Crafted from fired clay, a common and accessible medium for the time, such small-scale votive objects were likely dedicated at sanctuaries to honor deities commemorate rituals. The humble cart and standing male figure—possibly a driver or laborer—capture the vital role of wheeled transport in Cypriot society, blending with spiritual devotion. Terracotta models like this one proliferated in Cyprus, an islan...