The so-called Cycladic “frying pans” often came to light in richly furnished graves. Only about 200 of thse objects have been found in the Aegean islands and peninsular Greece. They are among the most mysterious objects of this culture.
On the “bottom” side is an intricate artistic carving made by the artist with great care. The “top” side of these objects is plain with no carving, but has a raised lip, like a frying pan
Since written records are missing, the meaning and purpose can hardly be clarified. The bowls were artfully decorated, mostly with opulent star motifs, spirals, ships, but also the female pubic triangle. Perhaps used for offer sacrifices to the gods in order to ask for a good harvest or a safe trading voyage. The Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens raises another possibility that the objects and their frequent star-like and sun-like patterns may be connected to the afterlife. Via Badisches Landesmuseum Karlsruhe. Photo: Thomas Goldschmidt. On display at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens
Design is fine. History is mine. 