Ancient Near Eastern art

Ancient Near Eastern art encompasses the visual and symbolic creations from civilizations like Mesopotamia, Persia, Anatolia, and the Levant, dating from approximately 3500 to 500 BCE. It often features detailed depictions of gods, rulers, and mythological scenes, using materials such as clay, stone, and metal. Art served religious, political, and societal purposes, emphasizing hierarchy, divine authority, and cultural identity. Characterized by grand architectural structures, such as ziggurats, and intricate reliefs and sculptures, this art reflects the complex, interconnected societies that valued storytelling and tradition through highly symbolic and durable mediums.