This plaster relief depicts a Lamassu, the winged human-headed bull of ancient Assyrian culture. With the body of a powerful animal, wings of an eagle, and the face of a bearded man, the Lamassu combined strength, divinity, and wisdom.
Historical Background
The Lamassu originated in Mesopotamia and became especially prominent in the Neo-Assyrian Empire (c. 900–600 BC). Colossal Lamassu statues guarded the gates of royal palaces at cities like Nimrud, Nineveh, and Khorsabad.
These guardian figures were not only architectural ornaments but also held deep symbolic meaning. They represented:
Protection — warding off evil and safeguarding the king’s city.
Strength and Power — the bull’s body conveyed might.
Divine Authority — the human head with horned crown symbolized wisdom and rulership.
Today, surviving Lamassu sculptures are among the greatest treasures of the British Museum (London), the Louvre (Paris), and the Iraq Museum (Baghdad).
This reproduction captures the essence of these protective deities in miniature, making their awe-inspiring presence accessible for modern collectors.
Product Details
Material: Plaster
Dimensions: 12.5 cm (H) × 12 cm (L)
Care & Handling: Keep in a dry environment. Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid water and cleaning products.
