Assyrian Eagle Head God Spirit Sculpture Relief plaque - Reproduction of Original from the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art, 865 B.C. The eagle-headed winged protective spirit shown here is known as an “Apkallu” spirit. The eagle-headed being touches traditions and beliefs that go back thousands of years in Mesopotamia, when similar images of terracota would be buried under doorways or set up at the entrances of palaces and temples. Their supposed magical strength would frighten away evil-wishing demons. In this representation, the eagle-headed being carries a bucket and a cone used to sprinkle, presumably, water from the bucket for purification. Across the body runs the so called “standard inscription” of King Ashurnasirpal which records some of the King’s titles and achievements and is repeated on many of his stone reliefs.

Made of cast stone. Cast stone is a type of gypsum cement whose properties are much different from plaster of paris which is what most sculpture shops use. Unlike plaster, which is soft, light and weak, cast stone is hard, heavy and strong. Cast stone feels like, and is heavy like a real stone would be, which can be experienced as soon you try to lift it.

Ships within a week. We ship worldwide but the displayed shipping cost applies to USA only. Please contact us to obtain shipping cost quote if you are not ordering from USA.

PayPal, VISA, MC, AmEx, Google Checkout, checks, bank transfers accepted

Ancient Sculpture Gallery stands behind its merchandise. Returns are accepted within 30 days. You may exchange this item or receive a refund for your return, provided the item is returned undamaged in original condition.