Firedog fragment

3D Model

Collection: Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

Inv.-No.: UF-15190

Material: Ceramic

Dimensions: 26 x 30,5 cm

Dating: 800 - 451 BCE

Fragment of a medium-fired firedog (moon idol) made of medium-coarse to coarse, brown to dark brown clay with a high proportion of small pebbles. The entire surface features sculpted decorations and incised ridges. The function of these ceramic artefacts is a matter of debate. Research shows that they are frequently found in Hallstatt-period settlements and burial grounds. Since the mid-19th century, two main theories have existed within the field of research. It may be a typologically and functionally defined object, such as a fire dog for roasting. However, it could also be an object from a ritual context.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.