6. Anthropomorphic Stele
4,000-3,000 BCE
​Saudi Arabia - Middle East

• ​Materials and Techniques: Low-relief sculpted Sandstone
• Description (Form): An upright tapered rectangular form with slightly razed details that depict a simple stylized human figure- including 2 almond shapes for eyes a triangle for a nose, and angles that cut inward to give the idea of shoulders that lead into a trapezoidal shape for the head.
• Content: Appears to be a human with a necklace, pointed tool, double bladed dagger, and two cords. May have served as a grave marker.
• Context: This as one of 3 anthropomorphic steels found on the Arabian Peninsula, far away from each other. All have similar markings and proportions but do have some elements that are unique to each one as if it's intended to represent a specific person. This is evidence that the cultures were able to travel and exchange ideas.
• Intended Purpose: Likely a grave marker
• Innovations and Conventions: Innovations: carved stone, stylized figure, transfer or ideas; Conventions: Funerary Art, Figurative Art
• Themes: Funerary , Figurative