Image Gallery
Assyrian Master of Ceremonies
Alabaster-bas relief, part of a long tributary scene, where the Assyrian king, Sargon II (not shown here), stands majestically, waiting to receive the tribute from Urartu (modern-day Armenia). From the Royal Palace of Sargon II at Khorsabad, in modern-day Nineveh Governorate, Iraq, c. 710 BCE.
This male figure, distinguished from all kinds of staff, and recognizable by the pageboy's hairstyle and humble (or no) bearing, brings up the rear of a group of high-ranking Assryian officials or dignitaries. Those men have access to the sacred figure of the king and they always require an intermediary, as in all Assyrian tributary art. This man while scrutinizing his superior, so as not to miss even the slightest gesture, puts Sargon always in context and indicates towards the tribute bearers to come forward.
The Iraqi Museum, Baghdad.
Questions & Answers
What are the dates for the Neo-Assyrian Empire?
- The Neo-Assyrian Empire ruled from 912-612 BCE.
Who is the greatest king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire?
- Ashurbanipal (r. 668-627 BCE) is considered the greatest king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire and also the last effective ruler before its fall.
Why is it called the Neo-Assyrian Empire?
- The term Neo-Assyrian Empire is a modern designation referring to the latter part of the Assyrian Empire when a new paradigm of leadership and organization emerged.
How did the Neo-Assyrian Empire fall?
- The Neo-Assyrian Empire had grown too large to maintain and, after the reign of Ashurbanipal, began to weaken. The enemies of the Assyrians - including the Babylonians, Medes, and Persians - saw their chance to liberate themselves and attacked, sacking the cities and toppling the empire.
