The Worship of Ningirsu. Ningirsu was god of Lagash in Southern Babylonia. Like other Sumerian deities he was believed to be the real king of his city and to lead its army into battle. The patesi; or priest-king; who ruled the city in his name; is here seen worshipping Ningirsu; into whose presence he is being led to the accompaniment of sacred music. Illustration for Hutchinson's History of the Nations (Hutchinson; c.1920). Note: Image has been digitally enhanced to facilitate repro.