Limestone
300–200 BCE
Greece
The British Museum
Details
Culture/Civilisation
Greek civilisation
Theme
Ancient Societies
Subtheme
Frailties of childhood
Case Title
Wife and Mother
Display Location
Coomaraswamy Hall
Findspot
Dali, Cyprus
Measurements
20 x 25 x 13 cm
Accession Number
1855,1101.26
Description
Giving birth usually requires help, so all societies have midwives. In this model from Cyprus, a woman from a well-to-do family gives birth on her ornate bed, while another attends her. Traditional midwifery was often skilled, but people also turned to the gods for support.
