Summary
Highlights
The lecture begins with the Neo-Sumerian period, marked by the resurgence of Sumerian cities after the fall of the Akkadian dynasty, around 2100 BC. A key example is the Great Ziggurat at Ur, extensively restored, which originally had a temple on top for offerings and sculptures. Ziggurats became progressively taller, requiring more structural support. The 'Seated Statue of Gudea' from this period, made of rare diorite, signifies his power and devotion, depicting him in perpetual prayer and as a commissioner of temples, with temple blueprints carved onto some sculptures.
Moving to the Babylonian period, Hammurabi is highlighted for his extensive law code, inscribed on a stele. This stele, similar to earlier monumental works, served a public function, presenting Hammurabi favorably. It depicts him in close communication with Shamash, the sun god, who is shown as larger and more elaborate, offering Hammurabi the tools of an architect, symbolizing leadership. The law code, written in Akkadian cuneiform, outlines crime and punishment, emphasizing Hammurabi's direct divine connection, without the need for an intercessor.
The Assyrian Empire dramatically expanded, dominating the Mesopotamian region and reaching into Egypt, an unprecedented feat for a Near Eastern empire. Assyrians were known for their large citadels, like that of Sargon II in Khorsbod, which featured extensive fortifications, bureaucratic offices, audience halls, and increasingly taller ziggurats. These gates were guarded by 'Lamassu' figures – intimidating chimeras with human faces, stylized beards, wings, and bull bodies, strategically placed to appear strong from the front and in motion from the side. Citadels also contained low-relief sculptures, such as the propaganda-filled 'Ashurbanipal hunting lions,' demonstrating the ruler's power, bravery, and his role in protecting his people through organized, ritualistic hunts.
Finally, the Achaemenid Persian period saw an empire of unprecedented size, extending from India to Greece, under rulers like Cyrus the Great, Darius I, and Xerxes. The ceremonial palace at Persepolis, though damaged by Alexander the Great, featured large audience halls like the Apadana, gateways similar to Assyrian Lamassu, and relief sculptures. These reliefs depicted diverse peoples of the empire coexisting peacefully, bringing offerings to the rulers, symbolizing imperial unity and control. A relief of Darius I with Xerxes demonstrates dynastic strength and continuity. The Achaemenid Persians were known for their effective governance and religious tolerance, allowing subjects to follow their own religions as long as they pledged allegiance to the rulers, portraying them as just and powerful leaders.