UMVA has learned that an extraordinary archaeological discovery has been made by an 8-year-old boy in Israel, uneartheing a 1,700-year-old Roman statuette fragment.
Dor Wolynitz, from Rehovot, Israel, stumbled upon the ancient artifact during a family weekend retreat at the Ramon Crater in the Negev Desert. The fragment, which dates back to the fourth century A.D., was found while Wolynitz was searching for interesting items to show in class.
The young explorer noticed a peculiar stone with stripes lying on the ground and picked it up, recognizing it as an unusual object. He then showed it to Akiva Goldenhersh, an archaeologist and family friend, who was on the trip.
Goldenhersh was initially mistaken about the object's origin, thinking it was a fossil. However, upon closer inspection, he was thrilled to discover the carefully sculpted folds of fabric on the fragment. Measuring six by six centimeters, the statuette depicts part of a human figure.
Further analysis revealed that the statuette was crafted from a phosphorite-type mineral native to the Negev, suggesting it was likely produced locally. The figure appears to be wearing a type of heavy mantle called a himation, with no visible undergarment.
The level of skill exhibited in the statuette's creation is remarkable, with delicate material and intricate folds. The artifact may represent the Roman god Jupiter or a Nabatean god called Zeus-Dushara.
The Ramon Crater area, where the statuette was found, was once a significant route for the ancient spice trade, where multiple cultures intersected. This small find reflects the blend of local traditions with influences from the classical world.
Goldenhersh noted that discovering the statuette as a surface find, rather than during a controlled excavation, is particularly unusual. The fragment likely moved from its original location due to erosion or natural shifts over time.
The desert conditions in the Negev have helped preserve the artifact, and it was eventually exposed on the surface. Wolynitz's responsible actions in handing over the find to Israel's National Treasures Department have been praised, earning him a certificate for his good citizenship.
His actions serve as a role model for proper civic responsibility and the preservation of cultural assets. The Israel Antiquities Authority has commended Wolynitz and his family for their exemplary behavior.
