These religious artifacts at Delphi originate from the eastern regions of the ancient world. This collection comprises small items, often ornately carved from precious metals such as gold, silver, and bronze, and occasionally decorated with semiprecious stones. These artifacts were typically presented as dedicatory offerings to temples and deities, illustrating the religious customs of various cultures during antiquity.
The collection includes a variety of artifacts, including miniature statues, jewelry, coins, and household items, indicating the donors' societal roles and daily life. Most miniatures depict divine figures offering protection or assistance, providing a snapshot into the prevalent religious beliefs of the ancient east.
These offerings date from the 8th to 2nd-century BCE, demonstrating the evolution of jewelry-making and sculptural techniques over this period. The size variations reflect their function as votive offerings, with smaller items typically measuring one to two inches and larger statues not exceeding a foot in height.
Inscriptions featuring Greek letters and symbols indicate the Hellenistic influence upon eastern cultures. Common motifs include animals, floral designs, and stylized human figures, suggesting an amalgamation of eastern artistic genres with Greek aesthetic standards.
