Mesopotamian Stone Amulet of a Bull's Head, 3000 BCE - 2000 BCE
Stone
0.625 x 0.5 x 0.75
PF.1937
Further images
For thousands of years, since before recorded history, man has worn amulets and talismans for luck and protection. The stones, feathers, teeth and claws that adorned early cultures eventually gave...
For thousands of years, since before recorded history, man has worn amulets and talismans for luck and protection. The stones, feathers, teeth and claws that adorned early cultures eventually gave way to an array of amulets whose powers where as varied as their forms. This splendid little token represents the head of a bull, a creature symbolic of strength, power, and virility, the favorite animal of many male gods. The reddish hue of the stone suggests it may have supplied its wearer with courage and protection in battle. Carved with abstract simplicity, it makes a timeless appeal to the senses.