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Art of the First Cities
Masterpieces: Mesopotamia
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"Standard of Ur," ca. 2550–2400 B.C.; Early Dynastic IIIA. Mesopotamia, Ur, PG 779, U.11164. Shell, lapis lazuli, and red limestone; H. 20 cm (7 7/8 in.); L. 47 cm (18 1/2 in.). Trustees of The British Museum, London BM 121201.
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This inlaid box was found in the death pit of a grave in the Royal Cemetery, lying close to the shoulder of a man. Sir Leonard Woolley, who excavated Ur, believed this man may have held the object on a pole and so called it a "standard," though there is no real evidence of its purpose. One side panel depicts aspects of a battle and its aftermath. The most important person, probably the ruler, is shown taller than the rest of the figures in the center of the top register. Behind him is his chariot, drawn by four onagers, or wild asses, and before him nude and bound prisoners are presented by a few of his soldiers. In the second register, a phalanx of soldiers is contrasted with soldiers in a variety of poses dispatching enemies and leading off prisoners. The king's chariotry is depicted in the lower register with naked and dead enemies lying beneath the legs of the asses. In the bottom register on the other side of the "standard," some figures carry produce in bags on their shoulders; others carry heavy backpacks supported by headbands or lead asses by ropes attached to nose rings. The second register introduces the bountifulness of the land with bald-headed Sumerians leading animals and carrying fish. In the upper register, a banquet is depicted with distinct religious overtones. The principal banqueter is joined by six participants, all of whom hold cups in their right hands. Four standing attendants, a lyre player, and a singer with long hair attend the seated men. Thus, the Standard of Ur encompasses the two aspects of Sumerian kingship, the military leader and bountiful mediator between humans and gods.
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