Between 5200 BC and 3200 BC, vast regions of what is now Romania, extending into modern-day Moldova and Ukraine, were inhabited by the Cucuteni culture, one of Europe's most ancient and intriguing civilizations. It was in the village of Cucuteni in Iași County that the initial relics from this culture were unearthed in 1884. This village later became the birthplace of Ionela Mihuleac.
For nearly two decades, IONELA MIHULEAC has channeled the spirit of the Neolithic era through her ceramics. Her creations have found homes across the globe, and her village workshop draws artists and pottery enthusiasts from various corners annually.
The pieces are hand-molded from red clay in a method true to the Cucuteni culture, which did not use the potter's wheel. Each artifact is graced with motifs echoing the original Cucuteni designs. Prominent symbols include spirals, wolves, birds, humans in cosmic settings, the dance of women, the curvaceous fertility goddess, and the horned ox symbolizing male strength.
The lantern house, designed to mimic the earthen homes of the Cucuteni civilization, is decorated with the wolf, a sign which speaks of guardianship and loyalty.
Average dimensions: Height - 25 cm; Diameter - 16 cm; Weight - 1 kg.
