Assyrian Winged Bull Bookend, Single

<p>A bookend based on one of a pair of guardian figures that flanked one of the entrances into the throne room of Ashurnasirpal II (883-859 BC). <br /> <br />Stone mythological guardians, sculpted in relief or in the round, were often placed at gateways to ancient Mesopotamian palaces, to protect them from demonic forces. They were known to the Assyrians as lamassu. <br /> <br /> This winged bull has five legs so that when viewed from the front it is standing firm, and when viewed from the side it appears to be striding forward against any evil. It wears ropes like other protective spirits. Between the legs is inscribed the 'Standard Inscription' of Ashurnasirpal which is repeated over many of his reliefs. It records the king's titles, ancestry and achievements. The helmet with horns indicates the creature's divinity. <br /> <br /> Based on the original sculpture on display in the British Museum.</p>

Exclusive to the British museum, a single bookend based on a pair of guardian figures that flanked one of the entrances to the throne room of Ashurnasirpal II (883-859 BC).

This resin ornament is based on an extraordinary statue which is now housed in the British Museum. Stone mythological guardians were often placed at gateways to ancient Mesopotamian palaces to protect them from demonic forces, and were known to the Assyrians as lamassu. 

This winged bull has five legs so that when viewed from the front it is standing firm, and when viewed from the side it appears to be striding forward. Between the legs is inscribed the 'Standard Inscription' of Ashurnasirpal, which is also found repeated over many of his reliefs. The standard records the King's titles, ancestry and achievements. The horned helmet indicates the creature's divinity, while the ropes draped on its body represent its protective nature.

A majestic history-inspired gift.