Typical of the Cycladic culture in the period around 5000 BC to 1600 BC are the female marble figures with the arms folded in front of the chest and the legs stretched out. The significance of these statuettes has been discussed at length in archaeological research. Today, it is assumed that the figures 'accompanied' people during their lifetime and played an important role in ritual acts. Since most of the idols were found in graves, it can be assumed that funeral ceremonies for the deceased were part of the rituals associated with the cult.
The "Spedos Variety" type is named after an early Cycladic cemetery on the island of Naxos. This group is the most widespread type and the one with the greatest longevity. (AVS)