Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Discovered in Kuwait, a 7,000-year-old clay figurine eerily mirrors modern depictions of extraterrestrials, sparking curiosity about ancient artistry.
Bahra 1, an ancient melting pot of Mesopotamian and Neolithic societies, witnessed a fusion of traditions, leaving behind this unique artifact.
Archaeologist Agnieszka Szymczak shared that the discovery surprised the team, as no similar figurines had been found in the Arabian Gulf before.
Made from Mesopotamian clay, the figurine showcases the Ubaid's influence, imported into the Arabian Gulf alongside their cultural practices.
Likely imbued with symbolism, this figurine reflects deeper ritualistic or social beliefs, despite being found in a mundane activity area.
The figurine's elongated skull may symbolize identity, a trait linked to cranial deformation practices in Ubaid society, as evidenced by skeletal remains.
Known as "lizard-headed" or "ophidian," such figurines hold historical ties to rituals, as seen in Mesopotamian graves and sacred spaces.
Near Eastern archaeologist Aurelie Daems praised the figurine's potential to shed light on Ubaid rituals and Gulf-Mesopotamia relations.
Excavations continue at Bahra 1, aiming to unravel more secrets about this enigmatic artifact and its creators.