Adoption and adaptation of Greek iconography in Cypriot votive figures during the Late Archaic and Classical period

The dedication of large numbers of anthropomorphic votive figures in local limestone and terracotta in Cypriot sanctuaries was an integral part of Cypriot cult practice from the Archaic to the Hellenistic period. Their iconographies and styles reflect the multicultural society in Cyprus as well as the diplomatic, economic and cultural connections of the island with all its neighbouring regions and cultures, which fluctuated in direction and intensity over those periods, broadly from the Near East towards the Greek Aegean. After summarising this general historical, cultural and religious background, the paper gives an overview of the iconographies and motifs of Late Archaic (CA II) Cypriot anthropomorphic votive-figures, before exploring the gradual adoption and adaptation of Greek iconography from the mid-6th century BC throughout the Classical period. The focus lies on certain and possible deity images, during the entire period, while male and female votary figures will be presented more summarily. The paper’s conclusion will offer some initial considerations of the ways and mechanisms of Greek iconography to Cyprus.