This Sumerian object makes use of __________, or horizontal bands that are commonly found in ancient art that communicate a sense of narrative.

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This Sumerian object makes use of __________, or horizontal bands that are commonly found in ancient art that communicate a sense of narrative.

art history btw

**Title: The Warka Vase: An Ancient Masterpiece**

The Warka Vase, one of the earliest examples of narrative sculpture, dates back to around 3200-3000 BCE and was discovered in the ancient city of Uruk, now in modern-day Iraq. This alabaster vase features a series of carved reliefs arranged in horizontal bands, or registers, that tell a story.

**Description of the Vase and its Reliefs:**

1. **Top Register:**
   - The uppermost section of the vase illustrates a ritual scene. Depictions include a seated deity, possibly Inanna (the Sumerian goddess of love and war), receiving offerings from attendants. This register highlights the importance of religious practices and the divine hierarchy.

2. **Middle Register:**
   - This band shows a procession of naked male figures. They carry baskets and vessels, perhaps bringing offerings or participating in a ritual procession. The nudity of the figures may symbolize their humility or lower status in comparison to the divine figure above.

3. **Bottom Register:**
   - The lowest section of the vase features a variety of animals, including sheep and cattle. These animals are likely part of the offerings to the goddess and emphasize the agricultural wealth and economy of Uruk.

4. **Base Motifs:**
   - The base of the vase is adorned with a wavy pattern, possibly representing water, and reflects the importance of rivers and irrigation to Mesopotamian civilization.

**Educational Significance:**

The Warka Vase is a pivotal artifact for understanding early Mesopotamian art and society. It provides insight into the religious ceremonies, social hierarchy, and economic life of one of the world's first urban centers. The narrative style and use of registers set a precedent for subsequent art forms in the region.
Transcribed Image Text:**Title: The Warka Vase: An Ancient Masterpiece** The Warka Vase, one of the earliest examples of narrative sculpture, dates back to around 3200-3000 BCE and was discovered in the ancient city of Uruk, now in modern-day Iraq. This alabaster vase features a series of carved reliefs arranged in horizontal bands, or registers, that tell a story. **Description of the Vase and its Reliefs:** 1. **Top Register:** - The uppermost section of the vase illustrates a ritual scene. Depictions include a seated deity, possibly Inanna (the Sumerian goddess of love and war), receiving offerings from attendants. This register highlights the importance of religious practices and the divine hierarchy. 2. **Middle Register:** - This band shows a procession of naked male figures. They carry baskets and vessels, perhaps bringing offerings or participating in a ritual procession. The nudity of the figures may symbolize their humility or lower status in comparison to the divine figure above. 3. **Bottom Register:** - The lowest section of the vase features a variety of animals, including sheep and cattle. These animals are likely part of the offerings to the goddess and emphasize the agricultural wealth and economy of Uruk. 4. **Base Motifs:** - The base of the vase is adorned with a wavy pattern, possibly representing water, and reflects the importance of rivers and irrigation to Mesopotamian civilization. **Educational Significance:** The Warka Vase is a pivotal artifact for understanding early Mesopotamian art and society. It provides insight into the religious ceremonies, social hierarchy, and economic life of one of the world's first urban centers. The narrative style and use of registers set a precedent for subsequent art forms in the region.
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