Lamassu Bookends Value Guide

These mid-20th century bookends capture the majesty of the ancient Assyrian Lamassu, a protective deity with a human head, eagle wings, and a bull's body. As reproductions of the colossal figures found at the gates of Nimrud, they remain highly collectible for enthusiasts of Mesopotamian mythology and Art Deco-era archaeological revival decor.

What Is Lamassu Bookends Worth?

The typical price range for Lamassu Bookends is $150 - $250 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Overall condition of the composite material, specifically looking for chips in the delicate wing tips or facial features.
• The quality and crispness of the casting, as more detailed reproductions of the Nimrud originals command higher prices.
• The weight and stability of the pair, with heavier stone-based examples reaching the $250 range.
• Market demand for Mesopotamian and Near Eastern revivalist decor within the interior design community.

How to Identify Lamassu Bookends?

• Look for the characteristic five-legged stance often found in traditional Assyrian Lamassu reliefs to provide a sense of motion.
• Examine the material for a stone or heavy composite feel, typical of mid-century archaeological replicas rather than modern resin.
• Check for detailed carvings of the feathered wings and the distinctively curled, tiered beard of the human head.
• Verify the presence of a felt or weighted base, which was common for decorative bookends produced during the mid-1900s.

History of Lamassu Bookends

The Lamassu is a mythical creature from ancient Mesopotamian mythology, typically depicted with the body of a bull or lion, eagle wings, and a human head. These colossal figures were often placed at the entrances of cities and palaces in Assyria to ward off evil and protect the inhabitants. They symbolized power, strength, and divine protection. The most famous examples come from the city of Nimrud.