fertility figures
The next few examples are considered to be " fertility figures " probable created to aid human reproduction through the magic and power they contained . figures 8.5 shows fertility statuettes from the middle to New kingdoms in Egypt. dared about 2000-1500 BCE and ranging from six to eight inches tall. The materials vary from clay and " faience " ( earthenware covered with opaque colored glazes) to linen and reed , as seen in the doll - like figure on the right . these figures were found in shrines of Hathor , the goddess of fertility . Some of the Figures have their genitals emphasized with simple incising in the clay . One is wearing the " isis Knot" on her back and is holding a baby . The isis Knot was and amulet worn to ensure fertility and long life . As with all cultures , the need for successful human reproduction was important to the Egyptians in order to carry on the family line and to contribute to the labor force . As is common to day , it was traditional to give a son his grandfather's name . With the prayer of these fertility statuettes placed before Hathor , women hoped for many sons.
the next small sculpture is a native american Patawatomi male figure ( love doll) from Wisconsin, dated 1800-1860 , and is nine inches in height ( figure 8.6 ). it is carved in wood and partly adorned in wool fabric . these figure-like carvings ( note the lack of arms) were used as " medicine" to control human behaviors and health. this type of figure could be used as a love charm to cast a spell on someone whose attentions were desired . The spell could be dangerous, as those under the magic of this charm found themselves powerless and would be helpless against its strength . Ethnologist Alanson skinner stated : " It is often that the captor tires of his or her conquest , and leaves the victim , who is still under the spell of such a charm . such a person will become frantic , and even go crazy, following the user of the charm everywhere " ( Skinner 1923; 207). to have successful "medicine," the owners of the love dolls would have to be spiritually prepared and,through dreams or visions, be given special powers by the spirits.