ITEM: Statuette of a rooster MATERIAL: Pottery CULTURE: Greek PERIOD: 4th - 2nd Century B.C DIMENSIONS: 129 mm x 92 mm CONDITION: Good condition, repaired PROVENANCE: Ex English private collection, Sussex, mid-20th century private collection. In ancient Greek culture, the rooster held symbolic significance and was often associated with various gods and religious practices. Statuettes of roosters were particularly common during the Hellenistic period (323–31 BCE) and later periods, and they served both religious and decorative purposes. The rooster was considered sacred to several deities, including Apollo and Asclepius, and its crowing was believed to have prophetic qualities. As a result, rooster statuettes were often placed in sanctuaries or temples dedicated to these gods as votive offerings. The rooster, known as the "cock of Asclepius," had a specific association with healing and medicine. Asclepius, the Greek god of healing, was often depicted holding a staff with a coiled serpent and accompanied by a rooster. The rooster's role in Asclepius's iconography was related to its believed ability to herald the dawn, symbolizing the renewal of health and the healing process. Statuettes of roosters were likely used as offerings in healing sanctuaries, where supplicants sought divine intervention for their ailments. Beyond their religious connotations, rooster statuettes were also popular as decorative items in Greek households. The realistic depictions of roosters in various poses and postures showcased the skill of Greek artisans in capturing the naturalistic details of the birds. These statuettes could serve as both aesthetic pieces and, in some cases, talismans believed to bring good luck or protection. Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and European Union export license If you bid outside European Union and win the item, we must request a new export license to your country and the shipment will delay between 3 - 5 weeks.