Homework Help is Here – Start Your Trial Now!
Social Science
Sociology
Victory stele of Naram-Sin How does this work of art convey that particular culture's notion of what constitutes power and authority?

Victory stele of Naram-Sin How does this work of art convey that particular culture's notion of what constitutes power and authority?

Social Psychology (10th Edition)
Social Psychology (10th Edition)
10th Edition
ISBN:9780134641287
Author:Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Publisher:Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Chapter1: Introducing Social Psychology
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ1
See similar textbooks
icon
Related questions
Question
Victory stele of Naram-Sin How does this work of art convey that particular culture's notion of what constitutes power and authority?
This image displays a significant artifact from ancient Mesopotamia. The relief is made from stone and showcases a detailed scene which can be interpreted based on Mesopotamian iconography. ### Description: The artifact appears to be a stele, which is an upright stone slab or column typically bearing a commemorative inscription or relief design, often associated with ancient cultures. The stele is carved with various figures and a notable celestial symbol. ### Detailed Analysis: 1. **Upper Section:** - Near the top of the stele, there is a prominent figure that seems to be larger than the others, signifying its importance. This figure appears to be standing on a raised platform or ground, holding a staff or spear. This could represent a deity or a high-ranking individual, often depicted in larger proportions compared to other figures as a mark of their status and significance. - To the right of this prominent figure, there is a secondary figure shown in a reverent or submissive pose, highlighting a hierarchical relationship. 2. **Central Section:** - Below the main figure, there is a group of smaller figures that are probably subjects or followers. They are depicted in various poses and activities, indicating possibly a scene of worship, tribute, or daily activities. - The smallest figures seem to be organized in rows and can be seen carrying objects or appearing in poses that suggest subordination or offering. 3. **Celestial Symbol:** - Above the prominent figure, there is a depiction of a star or a sun, which is often symbolic of divine presence or cosmic significance. In Mesopotamian art, such symbols frequently represent astral deities or the favor of the gods. 4. **Lower Section:** - The lower part of the stele is densely populated with smaller figures and detailed carvings. The scene appears crowded, suggesting a busy or important event possibly related to the scene above. ### Context: Stele like these were common in ancient Mesopotamia, serving various purposes such as marking territory, commemorating victories, or religious significance. The depiction of a larger figure with divine symbols indicates the importance of the individual and their close association with the divine or celestial realm. Understanding the intricate carvings on this stele provides valuable insights into the political, spiritual, and social structure of the period in which it was created. Each figure and symbol was deliberately carved to convey a specific message, reflecting the culture's values and beliefs.
Transcribed Image Text:This image displays a significant artifact from ancient Mesopotamia. The relief is made from stone and showcases a detailed scene which can be interpreted based on Mesopotamian iconography. ### Description: The artifact appears to be a stele, which is an upright stone slab or column typically bearing a commemorative inscription or relief design, often associated with ancient cultures. The stele is carved with various figures and a notable celestial symbol. ### Detailed Analysis: 1. **Upper Section:** - Near the top of the stele, there is a prominent figure that seems to be larger than the others, signifying its importance. This figure appears to be standing on a raised platform or ground, holding a staff or spear. This could represent a deity or a high-ranking individual, often depicted in larger proportions compared to other figures as a mark of their status and significance. - To the right of this prominent figure, there is a secondary figure shown in a reverent or submissive pose, highlighting a hierarchical relationship. 2. **Central Section:** - Below the main figure, there is a group of smaller figures that are probably subjects or followers. They are depicted in various poses and activities, indicating possibly a scene of worship, tribute, or daily activities. - The smallest figures seem to be organized in rows and can be seen carrying objects or appearing in poses that suggest subordination or offering. 3. **Celestial Symbol:** - Above the prominent figure, there is a depiction of a star or a sun, which is often symbolic of divine presence or cosmic significance. In Mesopotamian art, such symbols frequently represent astral deities or the favor of the gods. 4. **Lower Section:** - The lower part of the stele is densely populated with smaller figures and detailed carvings. The scene appears crowded, suggesting a busy or important event possibly related to the scene above. ### Context: Stele like these were common in ancient Mesopotamia, serving various purposes such as marking territory, commemorating victories, or religious significance. The depiction of a larger figure with divine symbols indicates the importance of the individual and their close association with the divine or celestial realm. Understanding the intricate carvings on this stele provides valuable insights into the political, spiritual, and social structure of the period in which it was created. Each figure and symbol was deliberately carved to convey a specific message, reflecting the culture's values and beliefs.
Expert Solution
steps

Step by step

Solved in 2 steps

SEE SOLUTIONCheck out a sample Q&A here
Blurred answer
Recommended textbooks for you
Social Psychology (10th Edition)
Social Psychology (10th Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:
9780134641287
Author:
Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Publisher:
Pearson College Div
Introduction to Sociology (Eleventh Edition)
Introduction to Sociology (Eleventh Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:
9780393639407
Author:
Deborah Carr, Anthony Giddens, Mitchell Duneier, Richard P. Appelbaum
Publisher:
W. W. Norton & Company
The Basics of Social Research (MindTap Course Lis…
The Basics of Social Research (MindTap Course Lis…
Sociology
ISBN:
9781305503076
Author:
Earl R. Babbie
Publisher:
Cengage Learning
Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Scien…
Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Scien…
Sociology
ISBN:
9780134477596
Author:
Saferstein, Richard
Publisher:
PEARSON
Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach (13th Edition)
Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach (13th Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:
9780134205571
Author:
James M. Henslin
Publisher:
PEARSON
Society: The Basics (14th Edition)
Society: The Basics (14th Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:
9780134206325
Author:
John J. Macionis
Publisher:
PEARSON
SEE MORE TEXTBOOKS