The Venus of Willendorf is a 4.4-inch tall carving discovered in Willendorf, Austria. It is believed to have been crafted between 30,000 and 25,000 BCE, making it one of the world’s oldest known works of art.
Kelly Richman-abdou
c. 28,000 and 25,000 BCE
Discovered in the early 20th century, this small statuette was retroactively given this title based on the belief that it was intended as a fertility sculpture. While this hypothesis has held water for years, historians, archaeologists, and other experts in the field today still aren’t certain about its portrayal, purpose, or even origins, making this sculpture one of the most mysterious in the world.
willendorf, austria
How far back?
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2020 | Present