Greek Artifacts > Minoan Snake Goddess

Minoan Snake Goddess

Background

The Minoan Snake Goddess is one of the most iconic and enigmatic figures in Minoan art and religion. These figurines, which date to the Middle Minoan period (circa 1700-1450 BCE), have been found primarily at the archaeological site of Knossos on the island of Crete. The Snake Goddess figurines provide valuable insights into Minoan religious practices, symbolism, and artistic achievements.

Description and Characteristics

1. Materials and Construction

   • Faience: The most famous Snake Goddess figurines are made from faience, a glazed non-clay ceramic material. Faience was valued for its bright colors and glossy finish.
   • Other Materials: Some snake figurines and related religious objects are made from clay, ivory, and other materials.

2. Design and Features

   • Pose and Attire: The Snake Goddess figurines typically depict a woman standing with her arms raised, holding a snake in each hand. They are dressed in elaborate Minoan attire, including a tiered skirt, an open-front bodice that exposes the breasts, and a high, conical headdress.
   • Snakes: The presence of snakes is a defining characteristic. The snakes are usually coiled around the figure’s arms and may also appear on the headdress or surrounding the figure.
   • Detail and Ornamentation: The figurines are highly detailed, with intricate patterns and designs on the clothing, jewelry, and facial features.

Notable Examples

1. Knossos Snake Goddess (Faience Figurines)

   • Discovery: The most famous faience Snake Goddess figurines were discovered by Sir Arthur Evans during his excavations at the Palace of Knossos in the early 20th century. They were found in a shrine-like room, suggesting a religious context.
   • Description: These figurines are about 30 centimeters tall, intricately detailed, and brightly colored. They depict the Snake Goddess holding snakes in both hands, with an elaborate headdress and exposed breasts.

2. Ivory and Clay Figurines

   • Description: Other Snake Goddess figurines made from ivory and clay have also been found at various Minoan sites. These figurines may vary slightly in style and size but generally maintain the same iconographic features as the faience examples.

Symbolism and Interpretation

1. Religious Significance

   • Goddess Worship: The Snake Goddess is believed to represent a deity or priestess associated with fertility, nature, and renewal. The prominence of the snakes, symbols of rebirth and regeneration, supports this interpretation.
   • Chthonic Deities: The connection with snakes may also indicate a link to chthonic (earth) deities, suggesting a role in rituals related to the earth, agriculture, and the underworld.

2. Fertility and Motherhood

   • Symbol of Fertility: The exposed breasts and the presence of snakes have been interpreted as symbols of fertility and the nurturing aspect of the goddess. This aligns with the broader Minoan focus on nature and fertility in their religious practices.
   • Mother Goddess: Some scholars suggest that the Snake Goddess could be a representation of a mother goddess, a central figure in many ancient religions who embodies fertility, creation, and the nurturing of life.

3. Ritual Use

   • Cultic Practices: The figurines' discovery in shrine-like contexts suggests they were used in religious rituals, possibly as votive offerings or as focal points for worship. The raised arms and snakes may indicate a ritualistic gesture or invocation.

Archaeological Context

1. Palace of Knossos

   • Shrine Room: The Snake Goddess figurines were found in what appears to be a small shrine or sanctuary within the palace complex, indicating their religious significance.
   • Other Artifacts: Alongside the figurines, other religious artifacts such as altars, libation tables, and ritual vessels have been discovered, providing a broader context for Minoan religious practices.

2. Other Minoan Sites

   • Phaistos and Malia: Similar figurines and related artifacts have been found at other major Minoan sites, suggesting a widespread religious practice or belief system across Minoan Crete.

Current Location and Display

1. Heraklion Archaeological Museum
   • Exhibition: The most famous Snake Goddess figurines from Knossos are displayed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Crete. The museum provides context and interpretation for these artifacts, highlighting their significance in Minoan culture.
   • Conservation: The figurines are carefully conserved and studied, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

Conclusion

The Minoan Snake Goddess figurines are a captivating and mysterious aspect of Minoan art and religion. These intricate and beautifully crafted figurines provide valuable insights into the religious practices, symbolism, and artistic achievements of the Minoans. Through their depiction of powerful female figures and symbolic use of snakes, the Snake Goddess figurines highlight the importance of fertility, nature, and ritual in Minoan society. As iconic representations of Minoan culture, these artifacts continue to fascinate and inform our understanding of this advanced Bronze Age civilization.

Sources

Artifacts