Image Gallery
Mesopotamian Foundation Figurines
Certain types of figurines were commonly placed within foundations of buildings during the third dynasty of Ur (2100-2000 BCE) of the Neo-Sumerian Period, to commemorate the building of temples by the ruler. These three peg-shaped copper alloy figurines represent kings. Each figure carries a basket on his head and there are lines of cuneiform inscription on the body. Usually, such figures were buried with foundation stone tablets describing the building process. These three figurines are displayed in one case at the British Museum. From left to right:
1. Foundation figurine of Ur-Nammu, reigned 2112-2095 BCE. This came from the Temple of Inanna at Uruk.
2. Foundation Figurine of Shulgi (son of Ur-Nammu), reigned 2094-2047 BCE. From the Temple of Dimtabba at Ur.
3. Foundation figurine of Shu-Sin (son of Shulgi), reigned 2037-2029 BCE. From the Temple of Inanna at Girsu.
From Southern Mesopotamia, modern-day Iraq.
The British Museum, London.
Questions & Answers
Was Mesopotamian religion polytheistic?
- Yes. Mesopotamian religion was polytheistic. The people worshipped approximately 3,600 different deities.
When was Mesopotamian religion first established?
- Mesopotamian religion was already established by the Uruk Period c. 4100 BCE.
Who was the most popular Mesopotamian god or goddess?
- The popularity of gods and goddesses changed with different eras but Inanna/Ishtar remained among the most popular in every period.
Why were amulets and charms used by religious people in ancient Mesopotamia?
- Amulets and charms were used by Mesopotamians to attract positive spirits from the gods and defend against dark energies from evil spirits, demons, or ghosts.
