Cycladic Figurines

Question 1

What are FAFs?

Answer 1

• female, folded arm figures
• very small, some slightly taller
• formerly painted

Question 2

What are fiddle-shaped figurines?

Answer 2

• still have folded arms, and some indication of female
• longer necks

Question 3

What is the general trend in collection?

Answer 3

• low level of collection in the 1800s, considered primitive
• 20th century modernist styles rebelled against the classical ideals, became more popular

Question 4

What is the issue regarding looting of these figures?

Answer 4

• estimated that only 10% come from secure contexts
• most looted from graves due to very high demand
• very difficult to establish function, or to learn about the Cyclades due to the loss of context

Question 5

What is the danger of seeing the figures as ‘high art’?

Answer 5

• Often displayed standing up, or on destructive stands
• have pointed toes (not intended to stand)
• holding or laying down alters context

Question 6

What is the problem with museum fudging?

Answer 6

• indefinite wording indicates provenience is unknown, high chance of looting
• known that out of 1200 known in museums, 2/3 are fake
• most dubious are the unusual variations (males, larger, action)

Question 7

How is the Museum of Cycladic art contributing to the problem?

Answer 7

• holds a large collection of Cycladic art
• buys up as much from the market as they can
• limited concern for legitimacy
• may be contributing to fake history and illicit sale