Front view of the Gate of All Nations at Persepolis, featuring the massive winged bull figures guarding the western entrance.

Gate of All Nations — Persepolis — May 16, 2015 (#0028)

Sony Xperia Z1 (C6903) • 4.9 mm • f/2.0 • 1/3200 s • ISO 50

Full-res download: mofaeye.com/28

#persepolis #gateofallnations #achaemenid #ancientpersia #xerxes #lamassu #wingedbull #ancienthistory #archaeology #historicarchitecture

A golden L, over which strides a lamssu - a bull's body (with 5 legs), a blue and gold wing, and a (very cheerful) human head with a curly beard and blue and gold hat and earrings

L is for Lamassu - a winged bull with a human head, found guarding the doorways to Assyrian palaces - note that this one has five legs, like many of the statues do!
#lamassu #wingedBull #mythologicalBeasts #imaginaryAnimals #kidlit