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Assyrian Eagle Protective Spirit is also known as Apkallu griffin. Originally from 865 B.C., it can now be found at the New York Metropolitan Museum. This beautiful example of Mesopotamian art is a 'wise man' or 'sage'. Babylonian tradition says that there were seven Apkallu who lived at the beginning of time before the flood. They were sent by the god Ea to teach wisdom to humans. They are shown as humans with wings. Some have the head of a bird, while others don't have wings and are dressed in the skin of a fish. They protected people and sometimes hold a bucket and cone for purifying. Apkallu figures are often shown beside doorways and in corners of rooms since these areas were where evil spirits were thought to lurk.

This relief is made from bonded stone with an antique sandstone finish, ready to hang, 18"H x 8.5"W.

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Related Categories: Relief - Small , Gods & Goddesses , Mesopotamian