Animal Depictions in the Nabataean Arts

Abstract The Nabataeans left behind a distinctive civilization, the remains of which are found in many regions, most notably southern Jordan, the Negev Desert, and the northwestern Arabian Peninsula. Nabataean artistic products – including stone reliefs, rock-cut facades, stone sculptures, terracotta figurines, painted pottery, and coins – demonstrate the high level of Nabataean art, particularly during the first century BC and the first century AD . One noteworthy aspect is their interest in certain types of animals, evident in their miscellaneous arts. Studying the types and forms of these animals has multiple implications for understanding and clarifying the Nabataeans’ religious beliefs and social and political life. Animal types in the Nabataean arts can also provide insight into the influence of ancient civilizations on the Nabataean culture. This research focuses on the types and forms of animals represented in different Nabataean arts, their material and moral significance, and their importance to the Nabataeans.