Tau-, Psi- and phi- type Greek terracotta figurines date back to 1450–1100 BC in Mycenaean Greece. They were typically small (about 10cm high), made of terracotta, although a group of ivory figurines has been found,^[1] and were found in tombs, shrines and settlement areas. They are classified by their shape and a resemblance to the Greek letters of tau (τ), psi (ψ) and phi (Φ), according to a typological system created by Arne Furumark in 1941.^[2]

Their function/purpose is unknown, although it has been suggested that their purpose changed with the context in which they were found. Possible uses were children's toys,^[1] votive figurines or grave offerings.

Some figurines appear to wear flattened headdresses, which suggests they may be goddesses.^[3] However, it is difficult to distinguish between goddesses and worshippers. It is likely that they were made by the same craftsmen who made Mycenaean vases, as the decoration techniques are similar.^[3]

Examples of such figurines are held by the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art (Athens),^[4] the British Museum (London),^[5] and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York) among other places.^[6]

• Mycenaean figurine on tripod