Sin/Nanna is a Mesopotamian god of the moon. Both Shamash, the sun god, and Ishtar, the Venus goddess, are children or Nanna and form the astral triad. Along with the moon, Nanna is closely associated with cattle and therefore the crescent moon, Nanna’s emblem, is sometimes portrayed as bull horns. The god is most frequently represented with the crescent moon, shown in this fine example. He also held ties with the underworld as a divine judge which allowed him to decide fates, give life and inflict diseases. The god was an important deity and had many places of worship across different cultures including Ur and Babylon.
Mesopotamian Terracotta Seated Deity
£ 650.00
A Mesopotamian clay seated male deity, likely Sin/Nanna, facing forward. He is presented in a long robe with headwear. Both arms are outstretched and holding on to a staff. A crescent moon is visible to the right of his head and two birds stand facing each other at his feet. The reverse is unadorned except for two protrusions used to hold the piece upright.
Provenance: Ex London dealer collection, acquired 1980s-2000s.
Condition: Fine condition, small chip to the right lower corner.
SOLD
| Weight | 90.9 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | W 5.2 x H 7.1 cm |
| Culture | |
| Pottery and Porcelain | |
| Region |
