Relief of the God Arsu Riding a Camel

 

Limestone, H. 33.0 cm, W. 44.5 cm, D. 7.0 cm. From the Temple of Adonis, Dura-Europos, ca. 100–200 CE. Yale University Art Gallery, Yale-French Excavations at Dura-Europos: 1935.44. Photography © 2011 Yale University Art Gallery.

(click for larger image)

Limestone, H. 33.0 cm, W. 44.5 cm, D. 7.0 cm
From the Temple of Adonis, Dura-Europos, ca. 100–200 CE
Yale University Art Gallery, Yale-French Excavations at Dura-Europos: 1935.44
Photography © 2011 Yale University Art Gallery

The Palmyrene god Arsu originated in Arabia as Ruda, the protector of caravans. His worship at Dura-Europos was probably introduced from Palmyra during the Parthian era. In the relief, Arsu rides a camel toward an altar. The crescent may symbolize his association with the evening star and nighttime navigation through the desert.