Closer Look: Animal Fables
and Epic Themes
The image above is an ancient sound box called a Lyre (2600-2500
BCE). Below the bull’s head are scenes that recall the Epic of
Gilgamesh, a 3,000-line epic poem rich in descriptions of heroic feats
and fabulous creatures as the hero probes the questions of immortality
and the meaning of human existence. Since the poem was only written
down 700 years after this harp was made, these scenes may visualize a
vital oral tradition.
Wood and shell inlaid in wood
Citation: Stokstad, M. + Cothren, M. (2008). Art: A brief history. Boston, MA:Pearson.
Image One
Detail of Sound Box
It is easy to associate the hero Gilgamesh with this commanding but
unprotected bearded figure, naked except for a wide belt, who masterfully
controls in his grasp the two powerfully rearing human-headed bulls that
flank him. The lower section are upright animals bringing food and drink for
banquet. One the left, a hyena- assuming the role of a butcher with a knife
tucked in his belt - carries a table piled high with meat. A lion follows him
with a large jar and pouring vessel.
Image Two
Lyre with Bull’s head, Royal Tomb, UR (modern day Iraq). c. 2600-2500 BCE. Wood
with gold, silver, lapis, shell on wood.
Sumerian artists worked in precious materials, as well as on stone sculpture
and architecture. A superb example of skill from 2600-2500 BCE is a lyre a kind of harp - from a royal tomb in the city of UR (modern day Iraq),
which combines wood, gold, lapis, and shell. Archaeologists have restored
the lost wooden parts of the lyre and reassembled the surviving pieces. Since
this material had to be imported from Afghanistan, it is enduring evidence of
widespread trade in the region at this time.
Guiding Questions
1. How do the stories recalled by the scenes on the lyre relate to the culture that produced
it?
2. What type of stories would we create on a lyre- or harp - today? Why?
PERSONAL CONNECTION:
How has the study of Ancient Lyre informed your knowledge as an artist?