
ALT My photo shows an ancient amber animal figurine, thought to represent an elk, displayed against a black background. Carved from translucent reddish-orange amber, the figure, which measures 7 cm x 4.7 cm. Seen in profile with head to right, it has a higher hind section, with a slightly lower yet elevated shoulder area. Its neck curves forwards with a downward facing head with a short muzzle. The forelegs and hind legs are carved as a single unit, with no separation between them. The lower ends of the leg join a carved frame whose lower edge runs parallel to the animal’s belly line. Delicate zigzag patterns cover its back and sides. The geometric decoration dates the figurine to the Late Paleolithic - early Mesolithic period. Two small metal display supports hold the figurine upright, with its reflection visible on the dark surface beneath. I photographed the figurine at Halle Landesmuseum, Germany, on loan for the Shamaness of Bad Dürrenberg exhibition.



























