An Attempt to recognition of identity of mythological characters regarding the snake and snake-god motifs in the ancient Elam glyptic

Snakes and snake-gods hold significant importance as a motif group among hybrid mythological creatures in ancient Elamite art. Each mythological motif in their art represents a distinct character, such as gods, demons, protective spirits, or mythological heroes. The Elamite snake-gods, comprising various species, are no exception to this rule. However, despite their significance, the identities of most members within this motif group remain unknown, similar to many other mythological creatures in Elamite art.
This article aims to enhance our understanding of the characteristics of the religion and the gods worshipped in ancient Elam. It seeks to answer these questions: “what are the types of snake-gods in Elamite glyptic” and “which god or mythological character each type of hybrid snake motif in Elamite art represents”. To achieve this, the article analyzes motifs related to Elamite hybrid snakes from over 4000 published Elamite seals and seal impressions. These motifs are then classified into eight distinct subgroups: entwined snakes, horned snake/viper, snake-dragons, boat-god, snake with human head, snake with a human torso, deity with snakes raised from his shoulder, and an anthropomorphic deity sitting on a coiled snake throne.
The article further attempts to identify the members of each subgroup by comparing the visual characteristics of each subgroup with descriptions of different mythological characters associated with snakes in religious and mythological texts from ancient Elam and Mesopotamia. It also draws upon previous research, relevant material evidence, and logical arguments to support its findings. Finally, the article introduces mythological characters and creatures associated with each motif, such as Ištaran, Ninazu, Inšušinak, Mušḫuššu, ušumgal/Bašmu, and Muš-šà-tùr. By doing so, it explains the circumstances surrounding the formation and transformation of this motif group within the politico-cultural context.