Couple Atop Two Animals

This ornamental figure originally sat on the top of a ceremonial standard carried in ritual processions. The image, which combines human and animal elements, may represent deities associated with fertility and the powers of weather. Similar single standing figures represent the Hittite thunder deity. The work was solid cast by the lost-wax method and is in good condition, except for a missing arm on the left-hand figure.

**Adapted from**

Ann R. Bromberg and Karl Kilinski II, _Gods, Men, and Heroes: Ancient Art at the Dallas Museum of Art_. Seattle: University of Washington Press, 1996. 33.