- Matthias Recke –
Circular holes on the back or underside of the votive are sometimes identifi ed as vent-
holes for fi ring, to prevent bursting of the piece in the kiln. However, since they appear
in the hollow heads and half-heads (Fig. 59.8) that are open on the underside, where this
was not technically necessary, and appear to be made with great care in small objects
that did not require a vent-hole, they are more likely to be understood as provisions for
suspension. They allow the presentation, for example, of a breast- or heart-votive in an
anatomically correct orientation.^13
Figure 59.7 Fragment of a female votive statue with open abdominal cavity, from Veii.
Antikensammlung, Inv. T III-37 (formerly Sammlung Stieda), Giessen. Photo Matthias Recke.Figure 59.8 Female half-head, with hole for hanging, from Veii. Antikensammlung, Inv. T III-36
(formerly Sammlung Stieda), Giessen. Photo Matthias Recke.