It has been suggested that the art of Mesopotamia often contains elements that can be seen as fearsome
It has been suggested that the art of Mesopotamia often contains elements that can be seen as fearsome, militant, or political in nature, while the art of the ancient Aegean is more harmonious, exuberant, and non-threatening. Using your textbook, carefully examine the art from both places.
Ancient Near East (Mesopotamia)
Choose one example from the art of the ancient Near East that either proves or disproves the statement that the art of this region can be seen as fearsome, militant, or political in nature. Capture the image and place it in the Word document provided for this assignment. Provide the following information: The title of the work, its date, its place of origin, a detailed description as to what you see being depicted in the work of art, 3–5 sentences as to the work’s historical value, and 4–7 sentences as to how this work of art proves or disproves the idea that art of this region is fearsome, militant, or political in nature.
The Ancient Aegean
Choose one example from the art of the ancient Aegean that either proves or disproves the statement about the nature of the art from this region—that it is often viewed as harmonious, exuberant, and non-threatening. Capture the image and place it in the Word document provided for this assignment. Provide the following information for each work of art: The title of the work, its date, its place of origin, a detailed description as to what you see being depicted in the work of art, 3–5 sentences as to the work’s historical value, and 4–7 sentences as to how this work of art proves or disproves the idea that art of this region is harmonious, exuberant, and non-threatening.
Sample Solution
Ancient Near East (Mesopotamia)
Title: Victory Stele of Naram-Sin
Date: 2254-2218 BCE
Place of origin: Susa, Iran
This stele depicts the victory of the Akkadian king Naram-Sin over the Lullubi people. Naram-Sin is shown standing tall and triumphant, with his foot on the neck of a defeated Lullubi warrior. Naram-Sin is also wearing a horned helmet, which was a symbol of divinity. The stele is covered in inscriptions that praise Naram-Sin and his victory.
Historical value: The Victory Stele of Naram-Sin is a valuable historical document because it provides information about the Akkadian Empire and its military conquests. The stele also shows the importance of religion in Akkadian society, as Naram-Sin is depicted as a god-like figure.