CIRCA 3000 B.C.

Although spectacle idols are much rarer than their eye-idol counterparts, it is generally accepted that the morphological similarities between the two point to a common symbolism as an abstract representation of a divinity at a time when gods were rarely represented in human guise. However, several variant theories have been postulated. W. Andrae in his book, Die Ionische Säule, relates them to the sacred cattle byres represented on Uruk seals and monuments, as well as to the picture of shrines at that period. In any case, the fact that they were excavated from temple sites or sanctuaries suggests a connection with cultic or religious practices. Representations of doorways and facades can be seen on many stone vessels of the late 4th millennium B.C. Reeds are a recurring feature as houses were almost entirely built out of reeds and clay. For a similar soapstone idol with architectonic base in the Vorserasiatisches Museum, Berlin, cf. C. J. Dury. Art of the Ancient Near East and Middle East, New York, 1970, p. 43. For a Jemdet-Nasr cylinder seal with a representation of a temple facade and doorway cf. The Erlenmeyer Collection, Part I, Sotheby's London, 9 July 1992, lot 2.
For a discussion on spectacle idols cf. E. Mallowan, "Excavations at Brak and Chagar Bazar", Iraq vol. IX, Part 2,, British School of Archaeology in Iraq, 1947, pp. 155-157, pl. XXVI.