by Nicole Brandt

Acrylic Paint on Canvas Board
12x16 in (~30.5x40.5 cm)
2022

In the Standard Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh, tablets III-V, Gilgamesh and Enkidu travel to the cedar forest and battle against the fierce guardian of the forest. Sometimes labeled a protective spirit, a demon, or a guardian, this terrifying monster is a formidable foe to the antagonists on their journey. He is described as a giant clothed in seven layers of radiant splendor. Despite his awesomeness, he is ultimately no match for Gilgamesh’s heroic strength, and he is slain.

This painting is based on a plaque depicting Humbaba’s face. Plaques like this were used as elements in divination.