Assyrian Bronze Pendant Stamp Seal with Double Head of Pazuzu

Description

A New-Assyrian bronze pendant stamp seal features the double head of Pazuzu, a formidable figure from Mesopotamian mythology. Dating back to the 8th/7th century BC, this pendant combines functional artistry with deep cultural significance, depicting intricate motifs and the fearsome visage of Pazuzu.

Seal Design Elements:

• Depicting a horse, a plant, and an eight-rayed sun, Human in shape, have no forehead, short nose, broad, and wrinkled like the nose of a lion. The mouth is shown in a wide grimace, with suspension loop and with stamp seal.
• The human-animal hybrid face of Pazuzu is characterized by a lack of forehead, a short, broad, and wrinkled nose resembling that of a lion, and a mouth shown in a wide grimace.
• Equipped with a suspension loop, this pendant could be worn as an amulet.

Symbolism:

• Pazuzu: A classic Mesopotamian monstrosity, Pazuzu combines human and animal features. Inscribed as the God Pazuzu, king of the evil wind demons, this figure was believed to offer protection against malevolent forces.
• Protective Powers: According to ritual texts, a bronze figure of Pazuzu placed at the neck of a woman in childbirth protected her against the demon Lamashtu, who brought fevers and death with fiercely hot winds from the west.

(may have been worn as amulets by pregnant women to protect themselves and their newborn children).