Since the dawn of civilization, water has had an important relationship with humans. The first art depicting ships was created over 40,000 years ago along the coast of the Caspian Sea. Nordic art depicting watercraft includes heads with open jaws and bulging eyes at the rear of their ships as a defense against evil water spirits. Homer depicted the sea in his epic poem The Odyssey. In this work, the sea represents the great journey through life.
Perhaps the most notable example of water in ancient art are the countless fountains constructed by Ancient Romans. It is suggested that Roman cities had fountains placed at intervals along main city streets. The ruins of Pompeii support this theory. Wealthy Roman households would often have fountains placed in inner courtyards on their property. |
Assyrian Warship c. 700 BC
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