Different from usual Babylonian plaques of naturalistic depiction, this deity has been portrayed with an abstract appearance. Nergal was associated with warfare, disease and death. He was also known as king of the underworld. It was believed that he was delivered to the underworld by demons and from there he tried to take the throne from the queen Ereshkigal. The only way for the goddess to survive was to marry Nergal which in turn allowed him to become king. He was thought to have accompanied kings to battle to bring death to their enemies enhanced by his link to demons and evil spirits. Nergal is commonly portrayed as a male figure carrying a weapon whether it is a scimitar or mace topped with a double lion’s head.
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Old Babylonian Terracotta Plaque
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An Old Babylonian terracotta plaque depicting Nergal, god of the netherworld. He is displayed in an abstract manner with a semioval head and his iconic jewelled locks. Neatly incised squares portray his fringed robe and he holds a scimitar across his body. The reverse remains unadorned.
Out of stock
Additional information
| Weight | 178.9 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 6.7 × 11 cm |
| Culture | Near Eastern |
| Pottery porcelain | Terracotta |
| Pottery and Porcelain | Terracotta |
| Region | Near East (Western Asiatic) |
