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Siddhartha Gautama, the Historical Buddha
The Buddha seated in meditation, one hand on his lap, the other pendant in a gesture known as earth-witness, which represents unshakability or steadfastness when being subject to the demons' temptations. This is a superb example of 12th century...
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Basalt Pot
This pot (and its cap) was made of basalt and was probably used for votive purposes. There are cuneiform inscriptions on the upper side of the pot. Below the cuneiform inscriptions, there is a scene depicting a man pouring water on a tree...
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Roman Votive Face
This glazed and painted terracotta face of uncertain provenance was probably intended as a votive offering, probably for the healing of a skin condition. Votive offerings were often dedicated at the temples of gods associated with healing...
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Jomon Period Stone Ritual Object
This stone ritual object comes from Japan and dates to the Jomon period, between 3000-400 BCE. (Tokyo National Museum)
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Unusual Object from Japanese Kofun
This unusual object made of clay was excavated at Musota in Wakayama prefecture, Japan. It dates from the 5th century CE, during the Kofun period. It may have been used for ritualistic purposes. (Tokyo National Museum)
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Japanese Blade-Shaped Object
About 60 similar examples were have been unearthed in Japan, from Southern Hokkaido and Northern Tohoku region. They were made between 2500 to 500 BCE. They may have been used in rituals but the details are unknown. Stone. From Japan. 2500-500...
Video
2600 years of history in one object (Neil MacGregor)
http://www.ted.com A clay cylinder covered in Akkadian cuneiform script, damaged and broken, the Cyrus Cylinder is a powerful symbol of religious tolerance and multi-culturalism. In this enthralling talk Neil MacGregor, Director of the British...
3D Image
Roman Votive Stela
1st century BCE votive stele. Likely from Rome. Limestone. From the Museum of Art History (Musée du cinquantenaire, Brussels, Belgium). Made with CapturingReality.
Article
10 Years of Ancient History Encyclopedia
Ancient History Encyclopedia's CEO Jan van der Crabben writes about the organization's 10-year history. Ancient History Encyclopedia just turned ten! On 25 August 2009, we officially launched the Ancient History Encyclopedia website by...
Article
The Ancient Synagogue in Israel & the Diaspora
A unique and fundamental aspect of ancient Judean society in both Israel and the Diaspora, the ancient synagogue represents an inclusive, localized form of worship that did not crystallize until the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE. In...