05.01 Ancient Near East

Flashcards about Mesopotamia and Early Agriculture

Cuneiform Writing

An invention of the Sumerians.

Ziggurats

Stepped temples (bent-axis plan), raised platforms for temples to reach heavens, invented by the Sumerians.

Votive Statues

Statues with wide, 'saucer-like' eyes that symbolize piety (Sumerian).

Stele of Naram-Sin

Artifact from the Akkadian period depicting Naram-Sin wearing a horned headdress to symbolize divine status.

Code of Hammurabi

A legal code from the Babylonian period, showing the king receiving authority from the god Shamash.

Lamassu

Winged human-headed bulls used in Assyrian architecture for intimidation and protection.

Ishtar Gate

Built under Nebuchadnezzar II, a mud-brick structure with blue glazed bricks, symbolizing Babylonian revival.

Apadana

Audience hall in Persepolis with reliefs of guards and dignitaries, showcasing power through order.

Buttresses

Supports for mudbrick walls.

Hierarchical Scale

Larger figures representing greater importance or power.