Greek / Roman Baubo Statuette

Handcrafted Replica Hellenistic Baubo Figurine – The Sacred Fool of Demeter

Details

In 1898, during excavations of the Demeter sanctuary at Priene, Turkey, a group of German archaeologists unearthed a collection of distinctive Hellenistic statues, dated to around 400 BCE. These figures were identified as representations of Baubo—a goddess of laughter, sexuality, and wisdom.

The Baubo figurines are unlike any other. Their heads attach directly to their legs, making the figure’s chin and vulva appear as one (or, as my sister so neatly put it, a ‘chuff chin’—a title that, as a lewd joker, I think Baubo herself would approve of!).

In some writings, researchers have translated the name Baubo to mean ‘belly’ or ‘stomach’, which might explain this unusual depiction of her face upon her stomach. It also recalls the phrase ‘belly laugh’, serving as a reminder that joy and laughter are essential to life—the more, the better!

In certain versions of Baubo’s myths, she is said to see through her nipples and speak through her vulva. This means that the figurine’s eyes are also her breasts, and her mouth is represented by her vulva. Such an image speaks to sexual liberation, celebrating the importance of bodily acceptance, pleasure, and wisdom—if only we are willing to listen to and understand our own bodies.

Appearing as a crone in Greek mythology, particularly in early Orphic religion, Baubo is described as the ‘sacred fool’ of Demeter (Ceres to the Romans)—the trickster figure who danced Demeter out of her sorrow.

Baubo has been called bawdy, vulgar, and sexually liberated, but above all, she is wise and willing to share that wisdom. She lightens even the darkest moods, using laughter to heal wounds and offering knowledge that inspires action.

When I asked fans of Baubo what they thought of her, this is what they said:

‘The bawdy goddess of women’s talk’ – Paula Bowman

‘She is the ‘stoma’: the mouth (in both senses) - she laughs, makes obscenities; she was an amazingly empowering figure for women in Ancient Greece, breaking the norms. LOVE HER!’ – Professor Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones

And a massive thank you to Clare Jasmine Beloved for sharing her Baubo knowledge with me!

Materials

White Earthenware or Pipeclay

Dimensions

Height: Approx. 138 mm
Width (at base): Approx. 45 mm
Depth (at base): Approx. 45 mm

Production

This museum-quality replica has been entirely handmade in Northumberland by Potted History, inspired by original Hellenistic artefacts.

• Handcrafted using traditional techniques
• Fired between 800°C - 1,000°C, replicating authentic ancient pottery methods
• Each piece is unique, with natural variations in surface colour and texture, just as seen in original artefacts

Ordering Information

• 'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
• '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

• Standard shipping: Sent via second-class postal service.
• Faster delivery: If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.

Bring Baubo’s mischievous wisdom and laughter into your home – order your replica figurine today!