Early Bronze Age Idol and Figurines from Panaztepe

Abstract

Figurines and idols, in varying proportions, have been found in almost every excavated center in the Western Anatolia region. The question of their function and the role they played in the social structure has been a subject of scholarly inquiry since the 19th century, drawing attention not only in archaeology but also in various fields of science and art. This study examines the idols and figurines unearthed during the Panaztepe excavations, specifically from the early phase of the Early Bronze Age 2, found in street and domestic contexts that reflect the characteristics of the Aegean Settlement Model. The architectural layout and ceramic tradition of the Panaztepe settlement demonstrate affinities with both the Western Anatolian coastal zone and the Eastern Aegean Islands. Accordingly, this paper aims to document the idols and figurines from Panaztepe, compare them with those from contemporary cultures and discuss theoretical approaches related to their interpretation.