Assyrian Reliefs in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, July 2007

Relief panels, Neo-Assyrian, Ashurnasirpal II; 883–859 B.C.
Mesopotamia, Nimrud (ancient Kalhu)
Alabaster (gypsum) (Mosul marble)

The palace rooms at Nimrud were decorated with large stone slabs carved in low relief, with brightly painted walls and ceilings and sculptural figures guarding the doorways. The throne room contained narrative scenes commemorating the military victories of Ashurnasirpal, while in other areas of the palace were protective figures and images of the king and his retinue performing ritual acts.

Text abridged from: www.metmuseum.org/Works_of_Art/viewOne.asp?dep=3&view...