Late Chalcolithic “Mask”

It often happens in archaeology, that some of the most presentable finds are discovered outside of the archaeological context, they had been used in, there off they often become the cause of many discussions in regards of their practical use, symbolism, and worth.
We have once again arrived at this conclusion with the discovery of one ceramic object – uncommon, sculptural anthropomorphic image. It has approximately triangular convex shape, and a human face depicted on its top side, while being roughly shaped on its back, concave side. There are two protruding excrescences in both corners of its upper part. These are most likely presenting stylized ears. They each have a small whole cut through, which was most probably used for hanging. The features of the face have been finished off by the means of narrow, incised lines, shaping fields with rough or polished surface. Fashioned are also eyebrows, stylized nose, and elongated eyes. This object is believed to indicate the social status of its owner and to have been displayed hanging on their chest. This presentation has its symbolic meaning and has been deliberately seeked after. The emphasis falls on the eyes – their shape, size and the vertical lines going down the face, which convey much bigger meaning, than the absence of a mouth. Looking closely into those eyes one is bound to sense the power, supremacy, and wisdom they radiate. What strikes the most is that if one should gaze on the mask under particular lighting, they’re bound to depict a hint of different emotions. However, this is hardly the effect the ancient artist sought-after, and rather a perception of the contemporary viewer. Nevertheless, this Late Chalcolithic “mask” is another unique find of the Oldest Salt-production and Unban Center in Europe.