Fish-cloaked sages (apkallu), four pieces

European Museums, The British Museum

Fish-cloaked sages (apkallu)

In order to protect a household, figures were buried beneath the floor in groups of seven. These examples represent apkallu, wise men dressed in fish-skin cloaks sent by the god Ea to impart knowledge to humans. For cultic purposes priests wore such cloaks made from a giant species of carp living in the river Tigris.

900 - 612 B.C.

From Nimrud and Nineveh, northern Iraq

Lahmu

Lahmu was a minor god, associated with the god Ea. Ritual texts prescribe that such figures be buried in the corners of a room and in the courtyard.

900 - 612 B.C.

From Nineveh, northern Iraq