800 BCE - Wearable Pazuzu Amulet
In ancient Mesopotamian religious belief, Pazuzu was the Lord of the winds of the Southwest and over the Lilu demons, one of which would become Lilith in lottery mythological development. His powers could also be harnessed for protective reasons. Specifically, he is famed for repelling the demoness Lamashtu, killer of children. This amulet was likely meant to be worn for just that purpose. Of course, Pazuzu is perhaps best known as the demonic force in the novel and film The Exorcist. This amulet is a wonderful and rare survival from ancient magical practice.
Pazuzu amulet in bronze with loop, 9-7th century BCE Neo-Assyrian. Features slightly worn, loop intact. 9.5 grams in weight, 33g in height, 10g width. Nice patina. Ex-collection, pre-1990 bought in US auction as part of estate.
In ancient Mesopotamian religious belief, Pazuzu was the Lord of the winds of the Southwest and over the Lilu demons, one of which would become Lilith in lottery mythological development. His powers could also be harnessed for protective reasons. Specifically, he is famed for repelling the demoness Lamashtu, killer of children. This amulet was likely meant to be worn for just that purpose. Of course, Pazuzu is perhaps best known as the demonic force in the novel and film The Exorcist. This amulet is a wonderful and rare survival from ancient magical practice.
Pazuzu amulet in bronze with loop, 9-7th century BCE Neo-Assyrian. Features slightly worn, loop intact. 9.5 grams in weight, 33g in height, 10g width. Nice patina. Ex-collection, pre-1990 bought in US auction as part of estate.
In ancient Mesopotamian religious belief, Pazuzu was the Lord of the winds of the Southwest and over the Lilu demons, one of which would become Lilith in lottery mythological development. His powers could also be harnessed for protective reasons. Specifically, he is famed for repelling the demoness Lamashtu, killer of children. This amulet was likely meant to be worn for just that purpose. Of course, Pazuzu is perhaps best known as the demonic force in the novel and film The Exorcist. This amulet is a wonderful and rare survival from ancient magical practice.
Pazuzu amulet in bronze with loop, 9-7th century BCE Neo-Assyrian. Features slightly worn, loop intact. 9.5 grams in weight, 33g in height, 10g width. Nice patina. Ex-collection, pre-1990 bought in US auction as part of estate.