Fish Imagery and Symbolism in the Art of Mesopotamia

Fish imagery and symbolism in Mesopotamian art can be examined from various perspectives. It may be studied in a historical context, exploring the stylistic evolution through different periods; as a social history, analysing how societal conditions shaped the development of artistic forms; or through its symbolic meaning, focusing on its religious, ritualistic, or cultural significance. Representations of fish, along with other Near Eastern fauna, are found on a wide range of artifacts, including pottery, stone vessels, cylinder seals, and reliefs, spanning various eras. This book will present new insights to scholars by providing a unique combination of ichthyological and archaeological analysis, which has not been previously undertaken. Additionally, it will illuminate how the people of ancient Mesopotamia visualized and imagined aquatic life over time. Ultimately, this work will be a valuable contribution to the field of Ancient Mesopotamian studies and its literature.