Archaeologists Uncover Rare First Temple Era Mold for Female Figurines in Jerusalem

Archaeologists in Jerusalem have uncovered a rare clay mold used to cast the faces of female figurines dating back approximately 2,700 years to the First Temple period. This discovery, made during excavations at the Kishle area within the Tower of David Museum complex, is the first of its kind found in the city and provides direct evidence that some of the well-known figurines from the Kingdom of Judah were produced locally in Jerusalem.

The mold was found during soil screening from deposits dated to the First Temple era, as part of construction work for a new archaeology, art, and innovation wing at the museum. After its discovery, the mold underwent meticulous conservation to reveal detailed facial features and was used to create a full reconstruction of a female figurine’s head, complete with detailed curly hairstyle.

These clay figurines, typically 10 to 20 centimeters tall, are commonly found broken at the neck due to their production method where the body was handmade and the head cast separately using molds. The figurines are categorized into three main types: female figurines known as "Judahite pillar figurines," horse riders, and zoomorphic animal figures. They were originally painted in white with traces of yellow, red, and black.

The exact purpose of these figurines remains debated; they have been interpreted as fertility goddesses, possibly the goddess Asherah, children’s toys, or amulets intended to bring blessings and protection to households. The new mold discovery is expected to shed light on these questions.

The Tower of David Museum plans to engage the public, especially children and families, in archaeological activities this summer, allowing participants to experience real excavation work by screening soil from the Kishle site. The Israeli Minister of Heritage, Rabbi Amichai Eliyahu, emphasized the find’s significance in connecting biblical texts, archaeological evidence, and the cultural history of Jerusalem.