The goddess with the Snakes Handmade Relief (20X24cm/7.87”X9.44”)

In this relife the figurine, known as theSnake Goddess, depicts a woman with open arms holding a snake in each hand, and a feline sitting on her head. The purpose or function of the statue is unknown, although it is believed that she may have been an earth goddess or priestess. The snakes are consideredchthonicanimalsrelated to the earth and the groundand are often symbols of earthdeities. Furthermore, the Snake Goddess is dressed in a layered skirt with a tight bodice, covered shoulders, and exposed breasts. The prominence of her breasts may suggest that she is fertility figure. Although her function remains in unknown, the figures significance to the culture is unquestionable.