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Part of a throne with deity on a bull

ca. late 8th–7th century BCE
Not on view
Urartu was a powerful kingdom that rivaled the Assyrian Empire in the first millennium B.C. It extended from northeastern Turkey into northwestern Iran. Its settlements were palace-fortresses that protected agricultural production and supported many crafts, especially an extensive metalworking industry. In the late seventh century B.C., Urartian centers were destroyed by an enemy whose identity remains unknown.

This object, with the lower part of a figure standing along the flanks of a bull, was most likely part of a throne. From better-preserved examples, we know that the figure wore the horned crown of a deity. The whole would have been gilded. A throne and footstool supported by four deities and their animal companions would have been a potent symbol of the Urartian king's power.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Part of a throne with deity on a bull
  • Period: Iron Age III
  • Date: ca. late 8th–7th century BCE
  • Geography: Urartu, probably from Toprakkale
  • Culture: Urartian
  • Medium: Bronze, plastic restoration
  • Dimensions: 7 7/16 × 5 7/8 × 2 13/16 in. (18.9 × 15 × 7.2 cm)
  • Credit Line: Dodge Fund, 1950
  • Object Number: 50.163
  • Curatorial Department: Ancient West Asian Art

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7012. Part of a throne with deity on a bull

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