This ivory head probably represents a Syrian queen or princess, possibly even a goddess such as Ishtar or Astarte. It was originally overlaid with gold leaf. Excavations at Nimrud have produced vast quantities of carved ivory. It was made for various purposes, such as ornate handles for fly whisks, but most were pieces of decorative inlay from wooden furniture such as beds, thrones and stools. The ivories were carved by craftsmen from all over the Assyrian empire and at least three major styles can be distinguished. This head is carved in what is called the Syrian style and was probably made by a craftsman from the region around Damascus.