Lamassu

Lamassu describes a guardian figure from Mesopotamian tradition represented as a composite form combining a human head, the body of a bull or lion, and wings. Lamassu statues were commonly set at city gates, palace entrances, and thresholds, where they marked boundaries and provided protection. Their mixed features expressed wisdom, power, and divine support rather than narrative personality. Lamassu functioned as symbolic protectors, asserting royal authority, order, and security while warding off danger through their imposing presence.