Relief - Pleasure Garden

myminifactory

The Assyrian monarchs cultivated gardens that embodied an earthly paradise. These royals filled their gardens, orchards and game preserves with a diverse array of plants and animals sourced from across the empire. By creating these artificial oases, the Assyrian kings showcased their prowess in bringing abundance and harmony to the world. Some sections of Ashurbapinal's North Palace at Nineveh were adorned with depictions of serene garden settings. On this panel, a lion strolls peacefully alongside two musicians. One musician donning a feathered headdress strums a lyre, while the other plucks a harp. They stand in front of a tree laden with grape vines. Behind the lion is a date palm bearing fruit. Viewed at the 'I Am Ashurbapinal' Exhibition at The British Museum in 2019.