Chalcolithic Anthropomorphic Figurines from Ilgynly-depe Southern Turkmenistan

The Chalcolithic site of Ilgynly-depe was occupied c.5000-3000 BC and consisted of a prosperous farming community with domestic dwellings that were richly decorated and highly ritualised. This piece of research focuses on more than 500 anthropomorphic figurines found during fourteen seasons of excavations at the site. These clay and stone figurines are examined in terms of their material, form and anatomical features, as well as their function as figurines in their own right, as handles on vessel lids, or as applique pieces on vessels. The presence of a dominant female symbolism is highlighted and linked to possible ritual acts at the site, A catalogue of figurine fragments is provided.