Rare 6th Century BCE Female Figurine Mold Found in Jerusalem Changes Understanding of Judahite Craftsmanship

A rare mold for casting the face of a female figurine dating back to the 6th century BCE, from the First Temple period, was recently uncovered in archaeological excavations by the Israel Antiquities Authority at the Kishle compound in the Tower of David Museum, Jerusalem. This exceptional find provides the first direct evidence that some of the well-known clay figurines from the Kingdom of Judah were actually produced in Jerusalem itself, altering previous assumptions about their manufacturing.

The mold was discovered during soil screening from layers dated to the First Temple era as part of the construction of the new Shulich Wing for Archaeology, Art, and Innovation at the museum. After its discovery, the mold was carefully cleaned and restored in the Antiquities Authority’s conservation labs. Using the mold, conservators recreated the figurine’s face, revealing clear facial features and detailed curly hair.

Dr. Amit Ram and Dr. Eila Zilberstein, excavation directors for the Antiquities Authority, noted that while clay figurines from this period are common throughout Jerusalem and Judah, no production molds had been found in the city until now. The figurines, typically 10 to 20 centimeters tall, often break at the neck because their heads were made separately using molds, then attached to hand-shaped bodies.

Debi Ben-Ami, a researcher specializing in the Iron Age at the Antiquities Authority, explained that the figurines, depicting women, horsemen, and animals, have been found at hundreds of sites but their purpose remains debated. Proposed interpretations range from fertility goddess representations to children’s toys or protective amulets. She expressed hope that the new mold discovery will help resolve longstanding questions about these artifacts.

Coinciding with the find, the Tower of David Museum will launch a special summer activity for families in collaboration with the Antiquities Authority. Participants will tour the Kishle site and sift through excavation soil themselves, hoping to uncover pottery shards, seals, and other archaeological finds, experiencing archaeology firsthand for a day.