The Stele of Naram-Sin was erected in the courtyard of the temple of the sun god Shamash in Sippar during the reign of Naram-Sin circa 2254-2218 BCE. Conveying the Akkadian ruler’s deified authority and military prowess, this imperial stele proudly celebrates the triumph of Naram-Sin over the Lullubi people of the Zagros Mountains. The stele towers at an impressive height of over 6’6” (1.98 m) made completely of pink limestone. The stele’s physically larger than life size emphasizes its importance as a monument to the great Naram-Sin’s victory and success as the leader of all Akkadians. One could interpret how its size relates to how the viewer can just barely comprehend the importance of Naram-Sin and his reign. Several artistic choices …show more content…
He is easily discernable as he is by far the largest figure in the composition. To begin with, the tapered top of the limestone slab perfectly accommodates the mountain and Naram-Sin’s figure, juxtaposing the two in a way that increases Naram-Sin’s own sense of glory and importance and compositionally emphasizes his larger figure compared to the other carved …show more content…
His arms, a spear, bow and arrow, and battle-axe, portray his blood lust and military might which overshadow his conquered foes. He leads his troops over the unforgiving hills and valleys of his captured territory, methodically wiping out all who oppose him. Naram-sin is also depicted smashing a Lullubi under his heel as he strides over the enemy troopers like a god crushing ants as he moves skyward, towards greatness and ascendance while the disgraced remnants of his foes pray for a merciful sentence and cower in fear. The enemy forces, now scattered in ultimate defeat, further legitimizes Naram-Sin and his troops historical