Assyrian Palace Guard Bookends

Unique Stone Look-Alike Bookends

Imposing sculptures of divine guardians (lamassu) protected and supported the important palace doorways at Nimrud, including a human-headed winged bull and a human-headed winged lion in the Museum’s collection. The horned caps the figures wear attest to their divinity, while their belts signify power. The sculptor gave these figures five legs so they appear to be standing firmly when viewed from the front but striding forward when seen from the side. Our striking bookends are based on these resplendent Assyrian guardian sculptures.