One of the most famous images in the study of art history is the Venus of Willendorf statuette found near Willendorf, Austria in 1908 by the archaeologist Josef Szombathy. Measuring no taller than 11 centimeters, this sculpture is characteristic of the group of statuettes found in Europe from France to Russia. They are usually carved in stone or mammoth ivory, although a few have been found modled from baked clay. Another theory is the figures are fertility figures, used to promote fertility in women, vegetation, and animals. It could also be interpreted as representations of acutal women, or idealized beauty of the time.
More female figures Click to view an enlarged image.