Contest frieze and god with lion scimitar

between 1894 B.C. and 1595 B.C.
grey felsite
24 x 13 mm
Morgan Seal 382
Provenance: 
Acquired by Pierpont Morgan sometime between 1885 and 1908.
Notes: 

"The scene of 381 includes a lion-demon about to stab a man, and that of 382 depicts two figures apparently killing a third; these themes may refer to activities of Nergal and his associates, and on this basis the deity with scimitar appearing in these scenes may be identifiable with that god. In regard to 382 this suggestion is perhaps confirmed by the fact that the deity has a lion scimitar before him... This seal my be of the same date as 381, since it shows similarly thickset figures." Porada, CANES, p. 47-48

Summary: 

Hero in bordered garment, armed with curved weapon and spear, attacking fallen man -- Laying hand on latter's head, hero armed with bow -- Worshiper facing god who holds scimitar, between them star above lion scimitar -- In field, fish.

Place: 
Southern Mesopotamia.
Classification: 
Department: