In this video [2:49] Met curator Kim Benzel on repetition in Relief panel from Assyria, c. 883-859 B.C.E. On this relief slab the king Ashurnasirpal II wears the royal crown, a conical cap with a small peak and a long diadem. He holds a bow, a symbol of his authority, and a ceremonial bowl. Facing him, a eunuch, a "beardless one," carries a fly whisk and a ladle for replenishing the royal vessel. The peaceful, perhaps religious character of the scene is reflected in the dignified composure of the figures.

Additional Tags

khan academy, metropolitan museum of art, relief panel from assyria, relief sculpture, king ashurnasirpal ii

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Classroom Considerations

• Knovation Readability Score: 4 (1 low difficulty, 5 high difficulty)