Marble cup
The Minoans often deposited small objects of clay, stone, and metal—such as this miniature marble cup—in sacred places, most notably caves and mountain-peak sanctuaries, as votive dedications to a deity. The practice—a feature of both ancient and modern religions—was based on the belief that one could communicate with the divine through symbolic gifts, either in the hope that the god or goddess would grant a request or as thanks for a favorable outcome.
Artwork Details
- Title: Marble cup
- Period: Middle Minoan I
- Date: ca. 2000–1900 BCE, possibly later
- Culture: Minoan
- Medium: Marble, black-white
- Dimensions: H. 15/16 in. (2.3 cm)
- Classification: Miscellaneous-Stone Vases
- Credit Line: Funds from various donors, 1924
- Object Number: 24.150.8
- Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art
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ca. 2000–1700 BCE
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