Room B Panel 23, Nimrud

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King Ashurnasirpal appears twice, resplendent in ritual robes and grasping the mace that embodies authority. Before him stands a majestic Sacred Tree, possibly representing life itself, as he offers a gesture of reverence to a god seated atop a winged disc. The god, likely the sun god Shamash, holds a ring in one hand; this ancient Mesopotamian symbol signifies divine kingship bestowed upon him. Two protective spirits stand watch on either side behind the king, adding to the symmetrical scene heavy with symbolism that was positioned behind the royal throne. Another identical scene was placed opposite the main door of the throne room, while similar scenes occupied prominent positions in other Assyrian palaces and were also intricately embroidered on the royal garments. At the time of excavation, traces of colour pigment were noted on the sandals, specifically red soles and black uppers. This magnificent artwork dates back to 865 BC-860 BC, discovered within Ashurnasirpal II's North West Palace at Nimrud. Its impressive dimensions measure 195 centimetres in total height and 432.8 centimetres in width.