The Venus of Willendorf is one of the oldest artistic representations of women. Archeology dated this figurine over 27,000 years ago.

In honor of Mother’s Day and inspired by the Venus of Willendorf and all the great mothers that surround us, Okra and Women and Mythology have come together to develop a piece that honors ancestral wisdom and mothers: The Great Mother Pendant.

The pendant was made for those who hold the values of mothering. The ones that foster in the inner and outer world, the one that gives and protects life. To those who mother themselves or others.

This ancient figurine is made of limestone and has large breasts, wide hips, and a round belly. Her hands are on her breasts, and her vulva is exposed. She has no facial figure. It was covered with red ochre when it was first discovered in 1908. Red ochre is a pigment associated with the power of birth and ancient fertility rituals.

The Venus of Willendorf, or the Great Mother as I call her, emerged from the earth soaked in red. She lived in spaces where the birthing aspect of women was honored and where mothering was celebrated — a time when women were the umbilical cord to the soul of the earth.

What does this figurine represent in the mythical world?

In the mythical world, we would say she is vast because she carries all the babies that haven’t been born yet. Her breasts are significant because it feeds herself and all others. Her hands rest on her chest because she acts with heart.

The vulva is exposed because she is not afraid or ashamed of her creative potential. She is faceless because who knows the face of the goddess? The goddess has as many faces as there are women in this world. We are the face of the Great Mother.

The Great Mother Pendant shows fidelity to the prehistoric figurine and, consequently, to the women - we imagine - who made it.

You can gift it to yourself as a reminder of your power as a mother or someone who has nurtured you. Let us celebrate motherhood in all its diverse and possible forms.

Written by educator and mythologist Maria Souza

Materials

Choose from brass gold plated, silver, 9k gold, 14k gold, and 18k gold. Every pendant is threaded with a strong and resilient nylon thread, adorned with earthy red glass beads and a hook.

Necklace’s length: 550mm
Pendant size: 180mm

Pre-order

We kindly ask for your patience and understanding. Our craftswomen take great care in creating each pendant by hand, ensuring that every detail is of the highest quality. From the moment you place your order, it will take our team 3-4 weeks to create your pendant - a testament to the time and effort put into each unique piece. We appreciate your support of our craft and look forward to delivering a beautiful and meaningful pendant to you.