Mycenaean female figurine and zoomorphic vessel in the Ayasuluk Hill in Western Anatolia

İngilizce (OpenAlex)

A Mycenaean Psi-type figurine was discovered during archaeological excavations at Ayasuluk Hill in Western Anatolia in 2021. The Ayasuluk Hill Psi-type figurine is distinct from conventional Psi-type figurines regarding its production features. The horizontal ornamentation of the painted bands encircling the front and back of the body contrasts with the decorating of typical psi type figures. Consequently, there is no precisely similar decoration in the late Psi type figurines, when multiple patterns were experimented with. Therefore, the Ayasuluk Hill figurine, indicative of regional or local production, must be evaluated separately from an imported and standardized Psi type figurine. The figurines were probably fabricated in the same workshops, similar to how Mycenaean pottery was locally produced on the Aegean islands and the western Anatolian shores. The Ayasuluk Hill Psi-type figurine was likely produced in a same workshop.The zoomorphic vessel from Ayasuluk, despite the absence of most of its components, can be inferred to have belonged to a bird askos based on certain basic features. The askos pieces exhibit the clay, slip, and painting attributes characteristic of Mycenaean pottery concerning technique and production. It is posited that the Ayasuluk bird askos arrived at the settlement via a link originating from Southern Greece or the Aegean Islands. Considering thus far, one might suggest the LH IIIC Middle and Late periods.Despite the absence of LBA architecture on Ayasuluk Hill, the finding of the psi figure necessitates an explanation involving individuals of Aegean descent. Furthermore, it should not be disregarded that highlighting the presence of individuals of Aegean background does not inherently imply an extended residency in this site. Such figurines should also be present in instances of short-term residence inside the city. Regrettably, because to the mixed context of the psi type figurine and zoomorphic vessel, it is impossible to acquire more extensive information regarding their exact functions and the identities of their owners. Currently, the Mycenaean discoveries from the 1963 excavation reveal indications of the religious practices of the Aegean inhabitants on Ayasuluk Hill. Nevertheless, it would be inadequate to elaborate further on their dimensions. Upcoming archaeological discoveries on Ayasuluk Hill may provide further insights on the Mycenaean presence in the settlement.