Winged Assyrian Bull, Khorsabad
This excavated Limestone winged bull guarded the entrance to the palace of Sargon in Khorsabad of the Assyrian empire
Louvre Excerpt
Winged Assyrian bull
Khorsabad, palace of Sargon of Assyria
721-705 BC
Gypseous alabaster
H 4.40 m
AO 19857
Description
"King Sargon II built his palace in the citadel of the new town that he founded near Nineveh, which was discovered by Paul-Emile Botta in 1843. The gates were guarded by bulls with human heads. These benevolent spirits, called "lamassou", were the guardians of the foundations of the world; in the same way they assured those of the palace. They are sculpted in the round for the foreparts and in high relief for the remainder of the body. They are shown with five legs. Seen from the front they are motionless, but seen from the side they walk. The inscription between the legs includes the titles of Sargon. Then it relates the construction of his town, called Dur-Sharrukîn, i.e. Fort Sargon. The new presention in the courtyard of the museum; called the Cour de Khorsabad, evokes the monumentality of the Assyrian palaces." - Louvre
Copyright © 2001 The Louvre Louvre Musée
Return to Bible History Online
Bibliography on Ancient Art
The Art of Ancient Egypt, Revised by Robins, 272 Pages, Pub. 2008
Unearth the rich tapestry of biblical history with our extensive collection of over 1000 meticulously curated Bible Maps and Images. Enhance your understanding of scripture and embark on a journey through the lands and events of the Bible.
Start Your Journey Today!