Abstract:
Boehmer’s Die Entwicklung der Glyptik während der Akkad-Zeit (1965), although nearly
60 years old, is still the major work on the cylinder seals of the Akkadian Period (2334–2150 BCE). It
examines different themes and motifs depicted on the cylinder seals during this period. One of the
figures which Boehmer discusses is the ‘kriegerischer Gott’, or martial god. Boehmer records this
‘kriegerischer Gott’ as being depicted on only eight cylinder seals. Despite this limited number of
examples, the figure exhibits a unique iconography, which suggests a unique, specific personage.
Furthermore, he is depicted on the seal of the scribe Adda (BM 89115), one of the most well-known
seals from Mesopotamia, in which he is depicted alongside Utu/Šamaš, Inana/Ištar, Enki/Ea and
Isiumud/Usmu. Because the ‘kriegerischer Gott’ is depicted together with these great deities of the
Akkadian pantheon, each with their own unique iconography, it suggests that he may likewise be a
figure of some importance. Boehmer devotes only one page to his discussion on the ‘kriegerischer
Gott’. A more detailed investigation into Boehmer’s ‘kriegerischer Gott’ is, therefore, required. This
contribution will, therefore, re-examine this figure by analysing his iconography, the unique attributes
which he has, the scenes in which he is depicted, and the figures with which he is associated. The
possible identity of the ‘kriegerischer Gott’ will also be addressed.
