Image Details

The standard of Ur (2500 B.C.) is decorated with an inlay depicting a military victory feast. The levels of the standard are separated by diamond-shaped pieces of lapis lazuli. The figures are set in bitumen and have a shell border. The king, the largest and most elaborately dressed figure (third from the left in the top row), is seated amidst his court. At the right end of the first row, a man is playing a large lyre which he carries by a shoulder strap. This lyre is identical to the bull lyre. The man behind him is probably a court singer. The panel’s obverse side, not shown here, depicts the military victory which this panel celebrates.