Willendorf meaning

The sculpture Willendorf represents fertility and motherhood in prehistoric art.


Willendorf definitions

Word backwards frodnelliW
Part of speech Proper noun
Syllabic division Wil-len-dorf
Plural The plural of Willendorf is Willendorfs.
Total letters 10
Vogais (3) i,e,o
Consonants (6) w,l,n,d,r,f

Willendorf refers to the small village located in Austria, which is famously known for the discovery of the Venus of Willendorf. This prehistoric figurine, estimated to have been crafted around 28,000-25,000 BCE, is one of the most iconic examples of Paleolithic art.

Discovery of Venus of Willendorf

Discovered in 1908 by archaeologist Josef Szombathy, the Venus of Willendorf is a limestone statuette that stands at just over 4 inches tall. This ancient artifact is believed to represent fertility and womanhood, characterized by its exaggerated sexual features such as the large breasts, rounded stomach, and prominent pubic area.

Significance and Interpretation

The Venus of Willendorf holds significant cultural and historical importance as it provides insights into the beliefs, values, and artistic expressions of Paleolithic societies. Some scholars interpret this figurine as a symbol of fertility, abundance, and the celebration of the female form, while others see it as a representation of the sacred feminine and the cycles of life.

Lack of Facial Features

One of the most striking aspects of the Venus of Willendorf is the absence of any facial features. This lack of detail has led to various theories about the purpose and meaning of the figurine. Some suggest that it represents a universal concept of womanhood beyond individual identity, while others propose that it emphasizes the importance of the body over personal characteristics.

Legacy and Influence

The Venus of Willendorf continues to captivate contemporary audiences and scholars alike, sparking discussions about gender, sexuality, and the representation of the human body in art. Its timeless appeal and enigmatic presence make it a lasting symbol of ancient creativity and cultural richness.


Willendorf Examples

  1. The Willendorf Venus is a famous prehistoric sculpture discovered in Austria.
  2. The Willendorf fertility goddess is believed to represent abundance and fertility.
  3. The Willendorf figurine dates back to the Paleolithic era.
  4. Many historians speculate about the purpose of the Willendorf statue.
  5. She is also known as the Woman of Willendorf or the Venus of Willendorf.
  6. The Willendorf artifact is on display at the Natural History Museum in Vienna.
  7. The Willendorf sculpture is one of the oldest known representations of the female form.
  8. Scholars continue to study the significance of the Willendorf Venus in ancient art.
  9. The Willendorf figurine is considered a symbol of ancient fertility cults.
  10. Archaeologists have uncovered several similar figurines near the original Willendorf discovery site.


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  • Updated 18/04/2024 - 02:33:46