3D model of a Moon Idol (NHMW-PRAE-622262-a)

<p>3D scan of a Moon Idol from ca. 800–600 BC. This Idol was found in the Leithagebirge, Lower Austria, and came to the Prehistoric Department of the NHMW in a curious way: it was simply stored in the showroom of the Department in the period after World War II and is thought to come from a private collection.</p><p>Moon Idols are crescent-shaped clay objects that are decorated with wheel motifs and equipped with rams‘ heads at the ends.&nbsp;The characteristic decorative elements of the Moon Idols - horns, rams’
heads, wheels and sun motifs - are also popular attributes of ancient
deities in the Mediterranean region. The basic crescent shape of the
clay made idols can also be associated with the moon. The Moon Idols
probably served the cult of the hearth.&nbsp;Normally Moon Idols stand on four legs. This Idol has two extra legs.
Why this is the case is unknown. Maybe this was artistic freedom. </p>