Banquet of Ashurnasirpal

The Banquet of Ashurnasirpal II is a famous relief sculpture that depicts a lavish feast held by the Assyrian king Ashurnasirpal II in 879 BC to celebrate the completion of his new palace at Kalhu (modern-day Nimrud). The relief is carved into a large slab of alabaster and measures over 10 feet tall by 7 feet wide.

The relief depicts Ashurnasirpal II seated on a throne at the head of a long table. He is surrounded by his family, nobles, and other dignitaries. In front of him is a table laden with food and drink. The guests are all seated on cushions and are dressed in elaborate clothing.

The relief also shows a number of servants serving food and drink to the guests. There are also musicians playing instruments and dancers performing. The relief is a remarkable example of Assyrian art and provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Assyrian court.

The Banquet of Ashurnasirpal II relief is now on display at the British Museum in London. It is one of the most important and iconic works of Assyrian art in the world.

The relief is significant because it provides a wealth of information about Assyrian culture and society. It shows the Assyrians as a wealthy and powerful people who enjoyed the finer things in life. The relief also shows the importance of feasting and drinking in Assyrian culture. Feasts were often held to celebrate important events, such as the completion of a new palace or a military victory.

The Banquet of Ashurnasirpal II relief is a beautiful and impressive work of art. It is also a valuable historical document that provides us with a glimpse into the life of the Assyrian court in the 9th century BC.

The following account comes from the Royal Archives of Assyria and dates from the seventh century BCE. The speaker is the Emperor Ashurnasirpal (883-859 BCE) displaying his royal power. The feast was held to commemorate the inauguration of his new palace in the capital city of Calah.