Rare First Temple Period Female Figurine Mold Discovered in Jerusalem's Tower of David Museum

During recent archaeological excavations at the Kishle area within Jerusalem's Tower of David Museum, the Israel Antiquities Authority uncovered a rare mold used to cast the face of a female figurine dating back to the First Temple period (6th-8th centuries BCE). The excavation was part of the construction of the new Shulich Wing for Archaeology, Art, and Innovation, supported by the Shulich Foundation, a major Canadian philanthropic organization. This new wing will complement the museum's permanent exhibits by integrating archaeology with contemporary art and innovation, allowing visitors to explore Jerusalem's ancient heritage beneath their feet.

The mold was found while sifting soil from deposits dated to the First Temple era. Dr. Amit Re'em and Dr. Eila Zilberstein, excavation directors, described the Kishle dig as one of the most significant archaeological projects in Jerusalem in recent decades, revealing continuous layers of the city's history from the time of the Judean kings through the British Mandate period. Conservation expert Tamar Gonen meticulously cleaned the mold, exposing fine facial details, and specialist Slava Klindukhov cast it to produce a complete female figurine face with detailed curled hair.

Dr. Re'em noted that while First Temple period clay figurines are common in Jerusalem and Judah, molds for producing them had not previously been found in the city, raising questions about whether they were locally made or imported. This discovery provides direct evidence that at least some figurines were produced in Jerusalem itself. These figurines, typically 10-20 cm tall, often break at the neck due to separate hand-formed bodies and molded heads. Three main types are known: female figurines called "pillar figurines," horse-riding female figurines, and zoomorphic animal figurines.

Debi Ben-Ami, curator of the Iron Age at the Antiquities Authority, explained that the figurines’ exact role remains unclear, though their widespread presence in homes, streets, and tombs suggests daily use. The pillar figurines have been variously interpreted as fertility goddesses, possibly Asherah, children's toys, or protective amulets bringing blessing and luck. The newly found mold may shed light on these questions.

Eilat Lieber, CEO and chief curator of the Tower of David Museum, announced that visitors this summer will have the unique opportunity to participate in the Kishle excavation by sifting soil themselves, becoming active partners in uncovering Jerusalem’s history. Heritage Minister Rabbi Amichai Eliyahu highlighted the find’s significance, linking it to the spiritual and cultural world of Israel’s ancient kings and prophets and underscoring Jerusalem’s ongoing revelation of Jewish historical chapters.