On numerous images from the Early Dynastic to the Neo-Sumerian period men and women are depicted pouring liquids from special vessels. Clearly defined are two spheres: the human banquet, in which men and women are holding drinking vessel offered to them by their servants, and libation scenes showing cult personnel and other persons pouring a libation before their gods. Handwashing, which would have preceded banquets and libations, does not seem to be represented in visual imagery.