How Do You Spell VENUS OF WILLENDORF?

Pronunciation: [vˈiːnəs ɒv wˈɪləndˌɔːf] (IPA)

The word "Venus of Willendorf" refers to a prehistoric figurine of a woman, dating back to 28,000 BCE. The spelling of the word "Venus" is pronounced /ˈviːnəs/ using the IPA phonetic transcription. The "V" is pronounced as a voiced labiodental fricative, the "ee" as a long vowel, the "n" as a voiced dental nasal, and the "u" as a short vowel. The final "s" is also pronounced as an unvoiced alveolar fricative. The spelling "Willendorf" can be pronounced as /ˈvɪləndɔrf/ using the IPA.

Meaning and Definition
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VENUS OF WILLENDORF Meaning and Definition

  1. The Venus of Willendorf is a Paleolithic figurine dating back to around 28,000 to 25,000 BCE. It is a small limestone statuette measuring about 11 cm in height, discovered in 1908 by archaeologist Josef Szombathy near the village of Willendorf, Austria. This iconic representation of female fertility represents one of the earliest surviving examples of prehistoric art.

    The Venus of Willendorf is often referred to as a symbol of fertility due to its exaggerated physical characteristics emphasizing the female reproductive elements. The statuette depicts a nude woman with a protruding abdomen, pendulous breasts, and emphasized genitalia. The figure's face lacks notable features, and her head is covered by a series of loops, possibly representing a braided hairstyle or a head covering.

    The purpose of the Venus of Willendorf remains a subject of speculation, but it is widely believed to have held a significant ritual or religious meaning within its cultural context. It is thought to be an embodiment of the Mother Goddess, representing the life-giving and nurturing aspects of femininity.

    The Venus of Willendorf is considered a seminal artifact in the study of prehistoric art and archaeology, providing valuable insights into the symbolism and beliefs surrounding fertility and women's roles in ancient societies. Its intricate craftsmanship and the care taken to depict the female body in such detail exemplify the artistic abilities and cultural perspectives of our early ancestors.