Mari (Fara-Ur I period), Temple of Ishtar, outside : Seated statuette, c. 2900-2460 BC

A kind of mantilla takes the place of the loose outer garment. The woman holds in her left hand a bundle of dates, which is often shown in the hands of participants in ritual banquets (Plate 45) or of gods on votive plaques. See also : Andre Parrot, Sumer, translated by Stuart Gilbert and James Emmons, London, Thames & Hudson, 1960, Illustration 152, p. 123 -- Gypseous stone, h : 19.2 cm (Louvre, Paris AO 18213)