Assyrian Tree of Life and Apkallu

Apkallu are seven demi-gods in Mesopothamian mythology, sometimes described as part man and part animal, associated with human wisdom; these creatures are often referred to in scholarly literature as the Seven Sages.

In the Epic of Gilgameš, they are mentioned as the builders of the walls of Uruk.

Plaques of the Apkallū could be placed in Mesopotamian houses and were believed to ward off evil.

Apkallu reliefs appear prominently in Neo-Assyrian palaces along with Assyrian Sacred Tree of Life, notably the constructions of Ashurnasirpal II of the 9th century BC.

This is illustration according to the founded reliefs in ancient Assyrian city of Nimrud, modern Iraq.