Image Details

The University Museum, University of Pennsylvania

A cuneiform inscription on the reverse side of this limestone disk from Ur (not shown) identifies the principal figure as Enheduanna, the first non-anonymous author in history. She is seen third from right in the reconstruction of the disk (shown here, compare with photo of limestone disk From Ur). Daughter of King Sargon of Akkad (c. 2314–2277 B.C.) and high priestess of the moon god at Ur during his reign and those of his successors (c. 2285–2247 B.C.), Enheduanna is known as the author of several lengthy poems in honor of the goddess Inanna and as the compiler of a cycle of short hymns to the temples of Sumer and Akkad. Her flounced garment and headdress without horns suggest her semi-divine status.