Votive Statues from the Square Temple at Eshnunna (jul 4, 2736 BC – oct 6, 15890)
Description:
2700 BCE
Gypsum, alabaster, shell, limestone
Sumerian Eshnunna (Iraq)
During early Dynastic period, life was focused on gods who were believed to live in the temples. The temples weren’t a place a worship. Mostly room for a priest who connected to the gods. Because of lack of access, elite had votives created in their likeness to represent them in the temple. Not sure how they were presented to the gods, some were found buried under the temple floor.
Carved wearing clothing commonly worn by those at the time, usually with hands clasped (right over let), show attentive. Some hold cups or branches as gesture of offering, some stepping forward with left foot.
Large numbers were found in several temples, sometimes changing styles according to where the art was commissioned. Later on cuneiform inscriptions with name of god and name and profession of donor
Added to timeline:
Acient mediteranian
Date:
Images:
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