Handcrafted Replica Predynastic Egyptian "Bird Woman" Figurine – Naqada IIa (c. 3650 BCE)
Details
The "Bird Woman" is a stunning and enigmatic figure from Naqada IIa, an archaeological culture of Chalcolithic Predynastic Egypt, dating to approximately 3650 BCE.
This mysterious figurine raises her upraised arms, appearing to wear a long white skirt. Her beak-like facial silhouette has earned her the nickname "Bird Woman," but beyond these observations, her true meaning and purpose remain unknown.
Symbolism & Interpretations
Figures with upraised arms appear in decorative vessel art and rock carvings from the same period. Interpretations of this posture suggest:
- Dancing
- Ritual greeting
- Mourning (less likely)
For this reason, scholars often refer to such figures as "celebrants."
The long white skirt is particularly noteworthy, as most figurines from this era are depicted without clothing. This distinction suggests that the garment may have symbolised status or significance. Some researchers also speculate that these figures may have once had hair attached to the crown, as dark patches have been observed on some examples.
Rarity & Historical Context
Figures of this style are extremely rare—only six known examples of "Bird Women" have been discovered from documented archaeological contexts. These six figures were found in two graves at el-Ma'mariya, sparking extensive debate about who or what they represent.
One theory suggests that they could represent an early Egyptian deity with both human and animal attributes. However, as noted in Dawn of Egyptian Art by Diana Craig Patch:
"For the ancient Egyptians, the shape did not depict a bird, and in fact, the beak-like curve is an abbreviated convention that focuses attention on the nose and chin, features that are almost always present on figures."
This supports the idea that for Predynastic Egyptians, the nose—a source of breath and life—was a key feature worthy of artistic emphasis.
Though we may never fully understand who she was or what significance she held, the enduring fascination with this 5,000-year-old figure ensures her legacy lives on.
Display Stand Options
You can choose to order your figurine with or without a stand, depending on how you’d like to display her.
If you initially opt for a figurine without a stand but later decide you’d like one, you can order a stand separately here: ORDER STAND HERE
Each hand-forged iron stand is expertly crafted by Tom at Heritage Blades (heritageblades.co.uk) using traditional blacksmithing techniques, ensuring a display that both has a historic aesthetic and is beautifully crafted.
Materials
Terracotta and white gypsum
Dimensions
Production
This museum-quality replica has been entirely handmade in Northumberland by Potted History, inspired by original artefacts.
- Hand-formed using traditional techniques
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Fired between 800°C - 1,000°C to replicate authentic Predynastic pottery
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Each piece is unique, with variations in surface colour and texture, just as seen in original artefacts
Ordering Information
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'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
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'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.
Shipping
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Standard shipping: Sent via second-class postal service.
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Faster delivery: If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.
Own a beautifully crafted piece of Predynastic Egypt – order today and bring history into your collection
