Archaeologists have unearthed a collection of rare, 1500-year-old figurines in Israel's Negev Desert, shedding light on ancient trade routes and cultural connections. The discovery, made at Tel Malhata, a site potentially linked to the biblical city of Moladah, includes five wooden figurines dating back to the 6th century.
The figurines, crafted from ebony originating from India or Sri Lanka, exhibit distinct African facial features, leading researchers to believe they were carved in Africa. These artifacts were found in Christian tombs alongside glassware, jewelry, and bronze bracelets. The location of Tel Malhata, at the crossroads of ancient trade routes connecting Africa, Southern Arabia, and South Asia, underscores Israel's historical role as a cultural exchange hub.
The figurines may have served as personal symbols of identity, kinship, or even represented ancestors. The presence of these African-style figurines in the Negev Desert highlights the diverse cultural and religious landscape of early Christian communities in the region. This discovery, published in the Israel Antiquities Authority's 'Atiqot' journal, offers unprecedented insights into the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations.