Hero choking a small lion
Khorsabad, palace of Sargon II
Neo-Assyrian period, reign of Sargon II (721-705 BC)
Gypseous alabaster
H 5.52 m
AO 19862
Description
"This long-haired personage, which constituted one of the
ornaments of the throne room (n) of the palace of Sargon II at
Khorsabad, is traditionally identified with Gilgamesh, ancient king
of Uruk, hero of a famous epic. In fact, these long-haired
personages, represent wise men, such as Adapa, whom the king
pretended to resemble."
- Louvre