Middle Bronze Age I-II, 2000-1550 BCE

(BLMJ 0577)

The function of this poignant image of a family is not obvious. Of the wide range of possible functions and meanings for these miniature human representations, one might have been as an icon in household worship. Figurines were also used in magic rituals to prevent or produce certain situations or states, such as ensuring fertility or good luck, warding off evil, curing illness, or causing harm to others. In these situations, the figurines might serve as talismans, amulets, wish figures, fetishes or therapeutic objects.