The act of child bearing and children themselves were crucial to the longevity of a culture and so the concept of this was highly regarded in all societies of the ancient world. Even today we consider the act of giving birth, a miracle, and so, vessels such as this one become objects which honor and immortalize a special and even sacred act. This particular vessel however, has a special function directly related to the act of giving birth. Due to the prominent subject matter of this vessel, it may have housed an important component to the act of childbirth whether it was used before or after the birth. The vessel itself is constructed out of rich, red terracotta, giving the whole piece uniformity. Along with the simple monochrome color is a simple incised design on the cheeks, breasts, knees and wrists of the woman. She is lying down in preparation of childbirth with her hands grasping her stomach. Her face is one of pain and determination, with her almond sculpted eyes looking directly ahead. The vessel itself is supported by her two legs and a third support which rests on her back, giving the vessel and the woman a feeling of realism often forgotten in such types of works. With the creativity of the artist, we are able to feel a part of this work and feel the pain that she seems to have, and thus become a part of the art itself by giving the artist his goal, to give his work life. HT. 23cm (9IN):L. 33cm (13IN)