Image Details

Erich Lessing

Gudea ushered in a new era of stability and prosperity in Lagash, opening up new trade routes, rebuilding much of the capital city and restoring 15 temples dedicated to Sumerian gods. After his death, he was worshiped as divine in temples built specifically for him; in these temples, he was depicted in a relaxed, seated position, as in the 1.5-foot-high statue here (compare with photo of 2-foot-high diorite statue).