Lecture Notes: Venus of Willendorf

Introduction

• Art historians seek definitive answers but are drawn to creation.
• Venus of Willendorf: One of the oldest known works, a female figurine.

Background

• Discovered in 1908 in Willendorf, Austria.
• Height: approximately 11 cm.
• Dates back around 25,000 years.

Museum Presentation

• Located in the Natural History Museum in Vienna.
• Shrouded in darkness, illuminated from above.
• Description of the exhibit: resembles a temple with a button that activates music and changes light.

Cultural Interpretation

• Named after the Roman goddess of love (Venus), implying a connection to fertility.
• Contextual Understanding: Limited understanding of the figurine's purpose and origin.

Characteristics of the Figurine

• No feet; thin arms resting on breasts; no facial features.
• Exaggerated body parts (stomach, breasts) consistent with figures from this era.
• Some variations in shape: some figures are more exaggerated while others are thinner.

Material and Design

• Made from limestone, originally painted with red ochre.
• Suggestion of a woven hat or hair on her head.

Theories and Speculations

• Majority of figures found from this period are female; no male figures discovered yet.
• Future archaeological findings may change current understanding.
• The dramatic proportions could be influenced by the natural shape of the stone.

Conclusion

• The figurine continues to fascinate art historians.
• Ongoing interpretations reflect contemporary interests and needs.
• Uncertainty about the original meaning remains.