Sumerian

In this image from a Sumerian cylindar seal, at least some 5,000 years old, we see the God standing upright on the left, identified by his beard. He displays the gesture of supplication toward Tiamat, depicted as a 4-legged serpent. On Tiamat's back is a platform or saddle, in the middle of which stands an erect pillar or column, at the top of which is a triangle pointing upward. The combined height of Tiamat and this pillar is equal to the height of the upright standing God.