Sharjah discovers mythical creature statue from Roman era

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The Sharjah Archaeological Authority (SAA) has announced the discovery of a new artifact in the Mleiha region of Sharjah.

The artifact is a bronze statue of a mythical creature with eagle's wings, a lion's head, and a huge bird's paw with claws.

The statue dates back to the Roman Empire in the 1st century AD. 

Dr Sabah Aboud Jassim, Director General of SAA, is very grateful for the extensive and continued support provided by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council member and Ruler of Sharjah.

The support of the Ruler is considered a mainstay in excavating and exploring artifacts and antiques.

These findings also highlight important activities carried out by the Authority and improve Sharjah's position on the archaeological map of the world.

He pointed out that the discovery indicates the existence of a trade network between Mleiha and the ancient empires in the past, indicating that the statue shape was depicted in many Roman works of art in architecture, decorations, wall panels, furniture and jewellery. 

Dr Sabah explained that the artifact is part of a censer with three similar statues and distributed in a symmetrical circular shape, topped with a large and luxurious cup used for burning incense.