Image Details

Copyright Institute of Nautical Archaeology

When found, this 6.5-inch-high bronze goddess was badly corroded (shown here, compare with photo of bronze goddess after cleaning). A thorough cleaning revealed fine gold plating on her hands, feet and head. The statuette was probably a votive figurine, intended to protect the ship. But it is also possible that she was cast in the likeness of the wife or daughter of a Near Eastern king and was being sent as a gift to another king.