Tag Archives: ancient Near East

Not So Chummy (Ancient Near East Gods in Temples)

Posted on June 12, 2015 by zjb

Reading Michael Hundley’s Gods in Dwelling: Temples and Divine Presence in the Ancient Near East, this made the greatest impression. As I’m reading it, this relates directly to debates about “monotheism.” Squirreled away in the innermost and most private sanctum … Continue reading →

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(Politics & Religion) The Ancient Art of Intimidation and Muscular Fertility (Ashurnasirpal II)

Posted on June 8, 2015 by zjb

Never underestimate the power of art to intimidate. These Neo-Assyrian big boys\dominating the palace rooms of Nimrud stamped the gold standard in the arts of religion and power. Guarded by gigantic winged bull-men, King Ashurnasirpal II wears the crown, accompanied … Continue reading →

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Gudea (Piety & Power) (Ancient Sumer)

Posted on June 5, 2015 by zjb

The first thing I noticed was the ancient ruler Gudea’s large headed and calm disposition, I misread the wall label. It said he was a “governor” so I assumed he was a mere courtier, ready to receive supplicants and supplications. … Continue reading →

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This Is An Idol (Ancient Near East Artifact)

Posted on June 3, 2015 by zjb

I’m not even sure if it’s “art,” which we know is a modern construct. Best to define these things as narrowly as possible, an “idol” is an ancient Near Eastern artifact. These home votives sit and stand there, they strike … Continue reading →

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