Problem
The Power of the Image: What can images "do"?
Images of gods, rulers, spirits, demons, and assorted other creatures, beings, and symbols constantly surrounded the people of the ancient Near East. Imagine the visual impact of seeing these images everywhere, on a daily basis. And unlike most contemporary Western art, these representations were not meant to simply record images or ideas, but rather to be imbued with the actual essence and power of who or what they represented, and to therefore effect change-to make things happen in the world. While not all representations in the ancient Near East were considered to embody such power, those that were enlivened could represent a deity, a protective creature, a ruler, or even a non-royal person.
What can artworks do? Consider the power of an artwork (to effect change, propaganda, promote culture, etc.) and explain your answer with references to artworks discussed in the Prehistoric and Ancient Near East units.