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Statue of the nu-banda Ebih-Il, hands joined, at prayer. Archaic dynasties period, circa 2400 BCE. Mari, temple of Ishtar. Gypsum, lapis lazuli, shell H.: 52.50 cm; L.: 20.60 cm.; D: 30 cm. AO 17551
Detail of the statue of the nu-banda Ebih-Il, hands joined, at prayer. Musée du Louvre - AO 17551
The famous statue of the nu-banda Ebih-Il was found almost intact in the temple of Ishtar Virile. It is an excellent example of the vitality of the Mariote sculpture produced during the archaic dynasties when depictions of praying figures became more common. Ebih-Il is the most accomplished of these statues. The expensive materials and the figuration of Ebih-Il at prayer suggest he was a very important figure in his time. Moreover, this work is an example of Sumerian influence on the Semitic world.
Materials: gypsum, lapis lazuli, shell
Dimensions: H.: 52.50 cm; L.: 20.60 cm.; D: 30 cm.
Location: Mari, temple of Ishtar Virile
Date: circa 2400 BCE
Writing system: cuneiform
Language: Akkadian written with Sumerograms
Inventory number: AO 17551
More information:Statue of Ebih-Il, nu-banda, Department of Near Eastern Antiquities, Musée du Louvre
