Relief of a Sphinx and lion
Relief of a Sphinx and lion
Published 2018-03-05T14:45:50+00:00
This architectural fragment from Ain-Dara was discovered shortly after the finding of a colossal basalt lion, leading to the full uncovering of the Ain-Dara temple.
The fragment depicts a sphinx and a lion and was used to decorate the temple portico flanking the three steps (out of four) made in basalt - seen the the left of the model.
The Ein-Dara temple, located near the village of Ain Dara, in Agrin, Rojava, is an Iron Age Syro-Hittite temple noted for its similarities to Solomon's Temple (also known as the First Temple).
In late January 2018, the temple was significantly damaged by Turkish Air Force jets in the course of their Afrin offensive. Reports indicate that at least 60% of the structure was reduced to rubble.
Further reading, Wikipedia.
Image credit - hittitemonuments.com
Date published | 05/03/2018 |
Complexity | Medium |
Title | Relief of a Sphinx and lion |
Date | 10th - 8th Century BC |
Period | Syro-Hittite |
Medium | Basalt |
Record | http://www.khaledakil.com/blog/ain-dara-temple-syria-before-the-war |
Place | Ain-Dara (archaeological site) |