My Eyes Are Up Here: Guardian Iconography of the Judean Pillar Figurines
Date of Award
5-14-2023
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Religion
Advisor(s)
James Watts
Keywords
Ancient Near East, Angel, Biblical Studies, Figurines, Iconography, Imaging Technology
Abstract
I use advanced imaging technology to reconstruct pigmentation and other aspects of the JudeanPillar Figurines (“JPFs”). The technology contributes new data points, allowing me to expand the iconographic, manufactural, and affectual parameters through which JPFs are analyzed. With paint retrieved, the eyes come to the fore. I interpret a watching role for these figures, and join a growing number of scholars who connect their hands-at-breasts posture to guardian females that flank doorways on architectural models. In sum, I interpret the JPFs as caryatids (not tree trunks) who guard the divine realm.
Access
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Recommended Citation
McCormick, Lauren K., "My Eyes Are Up Here: Guardian Iconography of the Judean Pillar Figurines" (2023). Dissertations - ALL. 1722.
https://surface.syr.edu/etd/1722
