Mesopotamian Art

3500 - 331 BC

When we talk about Mesopotamian art, we are referring to the art of the ancient world which extends from Turkey to Iran. This lengthy stage in art can be broken down into three (sometimes four) key periods.

3500 - 1750 BC: Sumerian/Akkadian

The Sumerian people lived in southern Mesopotamia. The hands of the people portrayed in Sumerian stone carvings are often shown pressed together and the men depicted have large faces with even larger beards. It was not unusual for the Sumerians to incorporate finely polished stones in their carvings as highlights for eyes.

1000 - 539 BC: Assyrian/Neo-Babylonian

The Assyrians crafted limestone reliefs that were quite large in size and importance. These reliefs were used as decorations for the palace walls of ruler King Ashurnasiroal II. Winged bulls were a common theme as were bearded faces, similar to those seen in Sumerian works. The Neo-Babylonians were led by Nebuchadnezzar - known for his conquest of Jerusalem and for the rebuilding of Babylon - to line the streets with artwork which included images of lions and dragons.

539 - 331 BC: Persian

In Persian art, the so-called animal style which uses animal motifs, can be seen in pottery and bronze sculptures.

Important Places:

• Iraq
• Turkey
• Ur (Muqaiyir, Iraq)

Great Lyre from the "King's Grave" 

Mesopotamian, ca. 2650-2550 B.C.

Shell and bitumen

©University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

 Recommended Books:

The Art and Architecture of Mesopotamia