Late Neolithic bodily representations : a comparative approach between megalithic Malta and other contemporary Mediterranean contexts

Abstract

The archaeology of the representation of the body was the focus of this dissertation. The study focused on the Maltese context during the Late Neolithic and the aim was to understand the ideologies associated with the figurines of Malta using the evidence found in the foreign context as a guide for interpretation. The abundance of female representation contrasted with the lack of male representation throughout the Mediterranean. This resulted in the international ‘Mother Goddesses’ interpretation of the figurines. The use of dimensions to evoke sensory response further consolidated the ‘Goddess’ interpretation and the colossal statues were considered to have been the deities of the societies in question. The material used to create the figurines and the pigmentation used to decorate them did not contribute to any interpretations surrounding the figurines as much as their posture and body type. The squatting or sitting posture of the figurines are associated with childbirth as some figurines are depicted giving birth or were found surrounded by evidence of a ‘fertile’ ideal. The emphasis on the reproductive organs and the occasional rendition of a swollen belly have contributed to the association of the figurines with pregnancy and fertility even though most figurines found in Malta are ambiguous. The figurines have also been studied in terms of their context. The context in which the figurines were found was either a funerary, domestic or a sacred one. The latter encompasses the temple context as well as any context containing evidence of ceremonial activity. In all regions, at least some figurines were found in a funerary context. In Malta, there was an even distribution of figurines found in the funerary and temple context. The material evidence found in the funerary context of Malta was interpreted as being of an ancestral nature.