In this exhibition, I have chosen to show the pieces of unique art that have been found within the

region of the Zab River Valley and the Diyala Plains Tell. I am interested in seeing the
differences between what was considered art within this period versus what is considered art in
our day and age. The art that has been found from this era are mostly statues of people or statues
of scenes. These scenes tell stories about what was going on in that period.

The first artifact I came across is a vessel that dates back to 2600-2350 BCE. It was found in the
lower Zab River Valley. This piece depicts the face of a young girl, but is also functional. In the
top of the sculpture, it is carved out and was most likely used as a bowl to carry things such as
oil, wine, or perfume.

The second piece I found is a warrior statue. This artifact could have easily been to tell stories of
military victories or advances, but also could have been just used as a decoration within
someone’s home. This dates back to 300 BCE and was found in the lower Zab River Valley.

This next piece was also found in the lower Zab River Valley and dates back to 2600-2500 BCE.
The piece is a statuette depicting a female worshipper. It is thought to have been used either as a
piece of art in someone’s home or in religious ceremonies.
The fourth piece in the exhibit was found in the Diyala Plains Tell and dates back to around
2600-2500. This piece could have been used to keep record of a historical event or as art. It is a
clay tablet that depicts guests and servants at a banquet.

The next artifact is an Alabastron found in the lower Zab River Valley from 500 BCE. An
alabastron is a decorative container usually used as a ceremonial vessel to carry things like
perfume or oils. It is called an alabastron because it is made from alabaster.

The sixth and final piece of art was dug up from the Diyala Plains Site and is a portrait of a scene
of soldiers transporting captives on a boat. This was used as a way to record a historical event
and as a piece of art. This dates back to around 668-627 BCE.