Basel Returns 15,000-Year-Old Figurine to Schaffhausen
The Canton of Basel-Stadt has decided to hand over a unique Stone Age female figurine to Schaffhausen, thus returning the 2.8-centimeter-tall artifact to its original discovery site over 50 years ago. This approximately 15,000-year-old figure, crafted from jet—also referred to as pitch coal, a type of fossilized wood—was unearthed at Schweizersbild, a significant archaeological location near Schaffhausen. Although diminutive, the figurine serves as crucial evidence of ancient artistic endeavors in the area. For Schaffhausen, this return represents more than just reclaiming an object; Schweizersbild is vital to the canton’s comprehension of its prehistoric heritage. The transfer signifies a cultural reunion for the piece, previously housed in the Museum der Kulturen Basel's collection, highlighting the increasing movement to restore cultural heritage to its roots.
Key facts
- The Canton of Basel-Stadt agreed to transfer ownership of the figurine to Schaffhausen.
- The figurine is 2.8 centimeters tall and roughly 15,000 years old.
- It was carved from jet, a black fossilized wood also known as pitch coal.
- The object was discovered at Schweizersbild, an archaeological site near Schaffhausen.
- It entered the Museum der Kulturen Basel's collection over half a century ago.
- The figurine is considered important evidence of prehistoric artistic activity.
- The return is significant for Schaffhausen's understanding of its prehistoric past.
Entities
Institutions
- Museum der Kulturen Basel
- Canton of Basel-Stadt
Locations
- Basel
- Switzerland
- Schaffhausen
- Schweizersbild