Writing Sample

Victor Moore

Art History                                 Visual Analysis of the

Royal Standard of Ur

(The Royal Standard of Ur “click me for Picture!”)  The Royal Standard of Ur is an ancient box shaped work of art that belonged to the wealthy Sumerian King Ur. The standard does more than just show off the king’s wealth. The pictures on it suggest that it was created to intimidate or frighten thus, it was named the Royal Standard of Ur. It was believed to be carried into battle like some type of flag.

The Royal Standard of Ur is a rectangular box. Both sides slope inward which gives it an almost triangular look when viewed from specific angles. The Standard is adorned with Lapis Lazuli, Inlaid Shells, and red Limestone. On all of the sides are pictures of human figures which are believed to be telling a story. It uses the ancient story telling form known as registers. Registers give the illusion of a base or ground. Three registers means three things are happening at separate times. The artists use a wide range of techniques. One is known as overlapping, giving the illusion of depth. This technique is used on the horses pulling the chariots, giving the impression of multiple horses. Another is hieratic scale, a method of drawing used to determine importance. The larger one was, the more important they were. Ur can easily be recognized because he is the largest figure on the standard.

There are two main sides on the Standard. One was of peace, and the other was of war. The peace side, the top register depicts the King and some members of the upper class enjoying a feast. Servants wait on them and musicians play music. On the lower registers, the artist has drawn slaves or prisoners hauling food to the higher members of society. The side of war depicts a battle and Urs victory. The kings’ soldiers trample on the enemy with ease. Their utter triumph over the enemy is see as the horses literally step on the enemies bodies.  The enemy is terrified and easily killed or captured by Urs soldiers. The top register is the Ensi, who is taller than all the others and wearing the garb of the high-priest. His men are presenting him with captured enemy soldiers. The prisoners are seen distraught, beaten, and defeated.

It is easy to see how the Royal Standard of Ur can be used as a standard. Not only does it show off the wealth Ur had, but it also has a “cause and effect” story. Those who fight Ur lose and are doomed to a life of brutal servitude. Those who serve him will live lives filled with victory and glory. The message Ur planned to get across is fairly simple. Ur cannot be defeated.