Assyrian Gateways, The Eagle-headed protective spirit

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This Assyrian Eagle-headed protective spirit was built around 865-860 BC and adorned the Temple of Ninurta in Nimrud. During the time of the Assyrian empire (about 900-612 BC), doors and gateways were thought of as key locations through which good or evil influences might enter. The building of entrances accompanied by elaborate ceremonies, during which they were given names that would bring good fortune. The annals of the Assyrian kings tell us that the colossal figures - part man, part animal - that were placed on either side of important palace entrances not only adorned the building and impressed visitors but also guarded it: "Protecting colossal figures of wtone shich by their appearance ward off evil, guarding the footfall, protecting the path of the king their maker, I placed to the right and left of the thresholds." Beside or behind each colossal figure there was often a winged spirit carved in stone, carrying a magic cone and bucket. Other spirits might be shown in glazed bricks, like those above the arches or the main gates at Khorsabad, shown below. Further protection was provided by magic statuettes beneath the floors.