The first object I thought was interesting was “Head of a Man (Known as an Akkadian Ruler)”, figure 2-10 in the reading. This piece was a hollow-cast figure, with features that were popular among most men at the time. It is meant to be Sargon. The features on the hair and beard symbolize power and royalty. The reason I found the object interesting was that it was later mutilated, to symbolically destroy power. This figure was most likely used as a sign of respect and royalty, but as standards changed, it was mutilated to signal a shift in power. From studying this piece we can learn about both the look and style of powerful men during this time period, but also about power, and how it is represented and shifts.
The second object I found interesting was the Votive Figures. They were used in devotional practices, and were often decorated to show worshippers devoting themselves to a god. The figures have very detailed and artistically well done designs on them, and are molded to be long and tall. From studying them, we can learn religious practices that ancient people found sacred (such as approaching gods with an attentive gaze). They show religious style and practices during the time period during which they were made.
