Votive Statue Of Gudea Essay

Throughout history, art has had gone through changes that are both subtle and drastic. There are constants throughout both art and the ages however. An example of one of these constants is that of religion’s influence and portrayal within the multitudes of Medias there are, such as paintings, architecture, and sculptures. Speaking of sculptures, let us focus on two sculptures in a little more detail. There are at least twenty seven known Votive Statues of Gudea. They originated from the Sumerian culture, one of the first known civilizations with documented history. The sculptures are sculpted from diorite, which is an igneous type of rock, though some of the earlier Votive Statues of Gudea were also carved from limestone and alabaster, but a majority use diorite as their choice of material. The diorite rock has a dark grayish complexion, though it can be seen as a greenish hue in certain lightings, giving the Votive Statues of Gudea an earthy presence to it.

This Votive Statue of Gudea is depicted in a sitting position with his hands clasped together in his lap. His entire bottom half is cover by his kaunakes, which is Greek for Thick Coat. The kaunakes in this case is a wool coat, typically made from sheep skin, in a ruffle like design; imitating flower petals or even bird feathers (Zettler). Underneath the coat, Gudea wears a long dress with hanging tassels off on one side. His face is sculpted with a solemn expression, though his eyes are large and cartoonish wide like he has come to realize something. Adorn on his head is a strange, crown like piece that features circular jewel like impressions all over