Sumerian Shell Head of a God with Horns

Culture: Sumerian

Period: around 2500 B.C.

Material: Shell

Dimensions: 2.4 cm x 2.2 cm

Price: Sold

Ref: 6244

Provenance: Royal Athena gallery, New York, with the inventory number CNF85, 2000. On 13 January 2001 sold to the US Hollywood agent Jeff Hunter (1926-2018). Accompanied by a copy of the original invoice.

Condition: Intact

Description: Very finely worked out small Sumerian shell head of a god with bull’s horns. The deeply pierced eyes once had inlays. The nose is prominent and long, the mouth closed with a friendly expression. On the sides of the head are broad, short horns. The head is pierced lengthwise for suspension. The "bull man" depicts a companion of the sun god Šamaš, who should hold off the evil with his magical powers. Possibly this small head is part of a composite statue with apotropaic function. Mounted.