In early May, three metal detector enthusiasts were scanning a field on Bornholm, a Danish island, when they stumbled upon a stylized gold figurine of a nude woman. Despite its diminutive size, measuring less than 1.7 inches in height and weighing a mere three grams, the artist managed to incorporate intricate details into this petite creation.
The figurine boasts an elongated and gracefully curved slender body, possibly carved from a single, thin strip of gold. Her facial features are reminiscent of Modigliani's art, with a pronounced jawline and striking characteristics. Her hair is depicted through bands carved into the back of her head and forehead. Although her arms extend to her waist, depressions just below her shoulders suggest that her hands may have been tied to her body. Her fingers point downward, touching a waistband adorned with a zigzag pattern, while her thumbs extend horizontally toward each other, meeting under her softly sagging breasts. Between her slender, elegantly proportioned legs, there are unmistakable genital features, with alternating curves highlighting her buttocks, knees, calves, and gracefully pointed feet. When viewed from the side, her legs create the impression that she is either hopping or standing on her tiptoes.
The figurine's back is particularly intriguing, as it features a never-before-seen decoration. Archaeologists have referred to this pattern as "teeth," although it could also be interpreted as steps. Since this is the first instance of such a pattern's discovery, its significance remains unclear.
It's worth noting that prior to this discovery, other gold statuettes were unearthed in the same field, with the initial find dating back to 2009. This newfound figurine is the fifth in the series and the only female representation among them.