Discovered May 13th, 1996 by Steven L. Tieken on site 11A80 in northwestern Adams County, Illinois, this extremely rare ceramic figurine, named Eve by the discoverer, is contemporaneous with the Native American Hopewell culture living near the Illinois, Mississippi, and Ohio rivers, between (1-150 A.D.). One of few documented pregnant female figurines known to North America, it is by far one of the most exotic. Images from left to right: Left profile / Front view.

Photo / Kenneth Farnsworth

Eve, A North American Venus

The artisan, who created this delicate work of art, was a master in the manipulation of time, space, and curvilinear lines that become alive in profile and shadow. With measuerements of a mere 4.5 centimeters in length, 2.5 centimeters from shoulder to shoulder, and a weight of 8.5 grams, this miniature masterpiece appears bold and slightly sensual, capturing the essence of womanhood and the mystery of childbirth with innocence and sensitivity. It is disappointing, however, that the head is missing and was not recovered during the excavation process.

This pregnant female icon emits a potent timeless expression of fertility, birth and life, a theme that appears forever ingrained in the imagination and arts of mankind. By whom, and for what purpose she was created, we will never know. Yet, what a wonderful mystery to behold.

Note the numerous similarities to the infamous Paleolithic Venus figurines discovered in Eastern Europe, which are thought to be between 25,000 and 30,000 years old.