| Notes on items |
2014-03-30 |
rAH |
Breakage of this figurine is unusual, to say the least; the forequarters seem almost to be scooped out. The excavator identifies this artifact as possibly an "ox." There is little of Bos about the artifact, with the possible exception of the genitals, which do extend rather far forward into the belly, a characteristic of cattle. Rather, there are other details that point to another genus. In the left median plane (V21d4756), the forelegs thrust forward in the manner of Felis 8 A5.15.1 TYPE I. Note accretions over all.
As visible in the ventral view (V21d4757), the penis, according to the excavator, is "fragmented." Rather, the entry to the urethra is simply indicated. The head of the penis, even so, does extend rather far into the belly. Likely, the "fragmentation" is simply the negative impression of the band that passed over the penis. This may also have occurred during an abrasive cleaning that has carried away part of the bodily detail.
I wish there were a dorsal view so I could establish diagnostic ratios.
In the caudal view (V21d4758), similar to A1.52, the legs meet in a rather wide angle: approximately 90 degrees; there is a rather open V inside: 60 degrees. There are signs of a caudal strap (negative).
Against the identification as Felis, the tail does not hang over and there is little indication of musculature; but see Felis 4, covered with a heavy slip -- there may be the indication of same with J5Q70.1. See V2d4758. [Input: Y401JW1.j] |