The Ephesian Artemis and Offerings to the Goddess











One of the most important representatives of the Archaic Period in the museum collection is the Ephesus Artemision findings. The sacred site of Artemis (Artemision) at Ephesus is considered as one of the most important religious centres of ancient times. The Artemis statues that have been discovered, indicate that the Ephesian Artemis differs from the Greek Artemis and features regional characteristics. The goddess and her statues were worshiped by following distinct rituals. Despite the fact that not a single Archaic cult statue of the goddess-known as a xoanon - has survived to the present day, archaeologists believe they were made of ivory or wood, dressed in fabrics and adorned with jewellery like the ones here on display. Adorned with rich jewellery and clothing, the statues were bathed and carried with a procession to the seashore.

Those who visited the Artemision brought various gifts as offerings and preformed/performed ritual sacrifices to show their respect and gratitude to the goddess, fulfil their obligations, ask for her help and avoid her wrath. The gifts were usually placed around the altar and structures related to the cult statue, all located within the sacred site. Among the gift offerings were objects made of metal, ivory and bone. According to ancient beliefs, gold symbolized wealth, strength, immortality and sanctity and therefore was also used to make a great number of gift offerings.

 Although Western Anatolia is a land rich in gold deposits, we do not encounter any gold jewellery workshops in Ephesus. Nevertheless, researchers point out that many of the objects found were unique, thus suggesting that they could have been locally produced in Ephesus.

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