Remarkable Discovery in Negev Desert
A recent find by a young boy has led to the unearthing of a fragment from a Roman statuette that dates back about 1,700 years. Eight-year-old Dore Wolinitz from Rehovot, Israel, made this exciting discovery during a family trip to Ramon Crater in the Negev Desert, as reported by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) on May 11.
Wolinitz found the fragment, which is from the 4th century AD, while exploring the area with his family on a weekend getaway organized by a reserve unit of the Airborne Forces. “I was looking for something special to show in class,” he shared with IAA, recalling how he picked up a striped stone that caught his eye.
Upon finding it, he showed it to Akiba Goldenhersh, an archaeologist and family friend, who was accompanying them. Wolinitz felt that the piece was unusual. Measuring 6 x 6 cm, the fragment shows “a part of a human figure with intricately crafted folds of cloth,” according to Goldenhersh, who supervises the IAA’s antiquities theft prevention division.
Initially mistaking it for a fossil, Goldenhersh’s excitement grew upon noticing the sculpted details in the folds. The statuette is made of phosphorite, a mineral sourced from the Negev, suggesting local artistry rather than something imported.
“The figure is draped in a thick cloak called a himation, with no visible chiton or undergarment,” Goldenhersh noted, praising the artist’s remarkable skill evident in the delicate carving technique. It’s possible that the statuette represents either the Roman god Jupiter or the Nabataean deity Zeus-Dusara.
Interestingly, such finds on the surface are rare compared to those uncovered in excavated sites. The Ramon Crater area, situated along an ancient trade route, historically facilitated interactions and exchanges between different cultures during Roman and Nabataean times. This small but significant discovery reflects influences from both local traditions and the classical world.
Finding Roman stone statues in this style isn’t common. “It’s particularly unusual to find something exposed on the surface,” remarked Goldenhersh. Over time, erosion may have moved the artifact from its original location. However, the region’s conditions often help preserve artifacts, frequently bringing them to the surface.
Dore Wolinitz handed the fragment over to the Israel National Treasure Authority and was honored with a certificate for his commendable act. “His actions exemplify civic responsibility and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage,” Goldenhersh remarked, stating that the child serves as a role model for all.
