Iraq: The pre-Islamic Arabian deities Al-Lat, Al-Uzza and Manat, Hatra (temple 5), 1st century CE

Allat, the Arab goddess of war, is the central figure on this stone relief from Hatra (once covered with thin sheets of gold or silver). She is flanked by two smaller female figures, most probably her daughters al-Izza and Al-Manat, with right hands raised up, palms forward, in the typical Hatrene manner indicating benediction or respectful prayer.

Although these deities are of Arab origin, Allat is shown with the attributes of the Greek goddess Athena: a gorgon head on her breastplate, armed with a spear, a helmet, and carrying a shield marked with her lunar symbol. The eyes and the costume are rendered in the local Parthian fashion.

The goddesses are perched on a lion - Al-Lat's sacred animal - portrayed with an extravagant flame-like mane.

Copyright:

Supplier: CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Credit:

Pictures From History