El

 

In the ancient Near East, El was the supreme divinity and the father of mankind. He was traditionally represented as an imposing old man seated on his throne. He had to settle disputes between gods, especially those involving Baal, the impetuous youth who often precipitated delicate situations. El's arms and eyes were usually made from perishable material, such as wood or ivory. The eyes were of white shell, while dark stones were used to shape the irises. Pieces were held together with bitumen.

Provenance: Ugarit (Ras Shamra).

Era: late Bronze Age (circa 1300 BCE).

Dimensions: 25 x 12 x 11 cm.

Collection: National Museum of Damascus. 

Syria, Land of Civilization. Les Éditions de l'Homme, Musée de la civilisation de Québec 1999.