Nimrud, Iraq: a human-headed winged bull with attendant genius guarding entrance (Gate D) to the throne room of Ashurnasirpal II's C9thBC NW Palace.
Nimrud, Iraq: a human-headed winged bull with attendant genius guarding the entrance (Gate D in the N facade) to the throne room of the central wing of the NW Palace. Ancient Kalhu (Calah in the Bible) became the capital of Assyrian King Ashurnasirpal II around 883BC. Carved from gypsum, the human-headed bulls (and lions) are known as lamassu or guardians of the gate. The winged genius wears the horned cap of divinity and carries a pine cone used for anointing. Nimrud is a World Heritage Site; in spring 2015 it was largely destroyed by supporters of Daesh. This photograph was taken in February 1983.
Size: 2441px × 3489px
Location: NW Palace, The Acropolis, Nimrud, Mosul, Northern Iraq.
Photo credit: © Mick Sharp / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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