We can understand this object as a reference to a tubular idol. It is composed of an overly long tube with an offset, projecting foot and a rough appliqué reminiscent of a face.
Beadlike protrusions sit above the widened foot and at the transition to the upper third of the tube. This piece appears to have been applied, as there is a distinct indentation of the tube below the bead protrusion. A bulging double rib can be seen almost in the middle of the extension, probably intended to represent a mouth; this has also been applied to the tube, as in the back the material is streaky until near the end of the tube, leaving a deep notch between the excess metal. Round, cast-on--possibly also soldered on--wire loops (the corrosion prevents further description) can be interpreted as eyes.
The piece, with its frog-like facial representation, is unique and can hardly be described as antique due to the representation as well as the technique.
(Text: S. Arnhold)
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