{Guardian Bulls & Lions in Assyria}[9th December 1990]

[Redbook8:122][19901209:1525]{Guardian Bulls & Lions in Assyria}[9th December 1990]

19901209.1525

‘Portal sculptures, which many would consider the most characteristic Assyrian art form, are not statues in the round but “double aspect” reliefs (ie meant to be seen either from the front or the side), apparently derived from a Hittite invention of the 14^th century BC[E]. These impressive guardian figures – usually human-headed bulls or lions* – decorate the arched gateways and are sometimes supported by others set at right[-]angles on the adjoining facades, their heads facing sideways. Each is composed from a single block of stone weighing up to 30 tons, roughly shaped in the quarry and then carved in situ.’

E[ncyclopaedia] B[ritannica] ibid [21:]937

[Text extracted from ms diagram reproduced above:]

			C
	(Human Face)		|		(Eagle)
		\		/
		–	☼	–
	Taurus	/		\	Leo
(T.III Empress)	Ox/Horned Beast	J~		U~	Lion	(T.IV Emperor)
			|

*{J}, U}

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