CLAS 3240: Magic in the Ancient World: Near East

Pazuzu was widely depicted in Assyrian art of the 1st millennium BC in the form of numerous bronze statuettes and protective amulets, made in a variety of materials ranging from plain terracotta to precious steatite or jasper. During this period, many beliefs and magical practises were associated with Pazuzu. The ring at the top of the statuette suggests that this type of object was worn round the neck or hung up in the home, particularly where invalids were sleeping.
Musee de Louvre, Early 1st millennium BC, Bronze, H. 15 cm; W. 8.60 cm; D. 5.60 cm, MNB 467.

Large stone relief of a winged apotropaic creature with human body and eagle head, facing right and holding a bucket and a piece of fruit; band of cuneiform inscription of Ashurnasirpal II across the centre; repaired from fragments. 865BCE, British Museum