Neo-Assyrian Bronze Pazuzu Figurine, c. 800-600 BC
The demon Pazuzu represented by this figurine stands like a human but has a scorpion’s body, feathered wings and legs, talons, and a lion-like face on both front and back. In Assyrian and Babylonian mythology Pazuzu, the “king of the evil wind demons,” was
not entirely unfriendly to mankind. As an enemy of the dreaded Lamashtu
demon, bearer of sickness especially to women and children, Pazuzu is
often portrayed on amulets used as protection in childbirth. The ring at
the top of this figurine suggests that it was such an amulet. From Mesopotamia (Iraq).