Code of Hammurabi (Upper Relief)
Sculpture (Bas-relief stela) • Unknown Babylonian stone carvers under King Hammurabi
Style & Movement
Mesopotamian (Old Babylonian Period)
Medium & Technique
Bas-relief carving on basalt stone
Creation Period
c. 1792–1750 BCE
Dimensions & Format
Original stela: 2.25 meters (7.4 ft) tall; Arched top format
Subject Description
The relief depicts King Hammurabi standing before the sun god Shamash, the patron of justice. Shamash is seated on a throne, wearing a horned headdress and holding the rod and ring of kingship, while Hammurabi makes a gesture of prayer/respect. This scene symbolizes the divine source of the laws inscribed below.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good (original artifact); the image shown appears to be a modern photographic reproduction or sticker.
Estimated Market Value
Inestimable cultural property; priceless
Auction Estimate
N/A (National Treasure)
Provenance History
Originally erected in Sippar or Babylon; taken as war booty to Susa by the Elamites in the 12th century BCE; excavated by Jacques de Morgan in 1901; currently in the Louvre Museum, Paris.
Art Historical Significance
One of the oldest deciphered writings of significant length in the world, representing a milestone in the development of human law, social order, and the concept of justice.
Notable Features
The use of composite perspective (heads in profile, eyes in front view), the distinct 'flounced' garment of the god, and the depiction of rays of light emerging from the god's shoulders.
Condition Issues
Natural weathering of the basalt surface, some minor pitting, and historic damage sustained during the Elamite transport in antiquity.
Conservation Recommendations
Climate-controlled museum environment, UV filtration, and periodic monitoring of stone stability.