Child Discovers Ancient Roman Statuette Fragment in Israel’s Negev Desert

A recent discovery by an 8-year-old during a visit to the Negev Desert in southern Israel revealed a 1,700-year-old Roman statuette fragment. The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) made this announcement on May 11.

Discovery During Family Retreat

Dor Wolynitz, the young finder from Rehovot, Israel, spotted the artifact while attending a family weekend event organized by a paratrooper reserve unit. The fragment is believed to date back to the fourth century A.D.

“I was looking for special things on the ground that I could show in class,” Wolynitz stated. “Suddenly, I noticed an interesting stone with stripes lying on the ground and picked it up.”

He shared the find with Akiva Goldenhersh, an archaeologist and his father’s friend, who accompanied them on the trip. The fragment, measuring six by six centimeters, features part of a human figure with intricate garment folds.

Analysis and Significance

Initially thought to be a fossil, the artifact soon revealed its unique fabric sculpting upon closer inspection by Goldenhersh, highlighting the artist’s skill.

Crafted from a phosphorite-type mineral native to the region, the statuette likely originates locally. The figure wears a heavy mantle called a himation, with no undergarments apparent. It might represent the Roman god Jupiter or the Nabatean deity Zeus-Dushara.

Goldenhersh emphasized the rarity of such discoveries as surface finds instead of during controlled excavations. The object reflects a blend of local traditions with classical influences due to the area’s historical role as a vital trade route.

Preservation and Reporting

The desert conditions of the Negev can preserve artifacts and sometimes reveal them on the surface, contributing to such finds.

Wolynitz demonstrated “good citizenship” by reporting the find to Israel’s National Treasures Department, receiving a certificate for his actions. Goldenhersh praised him as a “role model” for showcasing responsible conduct and protecting cultural heritage.