Lagash : Seated Gudea, 2275-2260 BC

Date

Authors

Strommenger, Eva
Photographer: Arthur Llewellyn Basham

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Abstract

Description

One of the few sculptures of Gudea I completely preserved and identifiable (by inscription). All sculptures in the round of Gudea period are very uniform in style. Differences are almost entirely limited to variations in proportions
they were elongated or squat depending on the shape of the block of stone - precious diorite, brought from far. Gudea always wears the toga-like clothing already introduced in Imperial Akkadian times
a mantle consisting of a large rectangular piece of cloth decorated with fringes. His head may be shaven, or as here covered by a broad-brimmed cap with little curls evenly spread all over its surface. The long inscription on his lap contains a dedication to the god Ningirsu, in whose temple this work was placed to pray constantly for Gudea's life. It runs : "Gudea, the builder of the temple, has been given life". -- Same as WA-90. -- Tello ("Tel des Tablettes"), diorite, h : 45 cm (Louvre, Paris AO 3293 & 4108).

Citation

Source

Type

Archives Series

Date created

1964

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This image is provided for research purposes only and must not be reproduced without the prior permission of the Archives Program, Australian National University.

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