20th-16th century B.C. A ceramic Humbaba mask depicting the face or severed head of the Mesopotamian demon, capturing his iconic grotesque facial features in relief; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 81 grams, 75 mm (110 grams total, 92 mm including stand) (3 in. (3 5/8 in.)). Acquired 1979-1999. London collection of the late Mr S.M., thence by descent. Guardian of the Cedar forest and the brother of Pazuzu. Within traditional Mesopotamian religion, Humbaba was a monstrous giant raised by the sun god Shamash. His head was widely used as an apotropaic object and was hung on walls to ward-off evil spirits.