Classification(s)
- Reproduction
- Sculpture
- Architectural
Escaping Swimmers
CultureAssyrian
PeriodNeo-Assyrian
DateMid-late 9th century BCE
MediumResin
Label TextThis scene probably portrays an actual event from Ashurnasirpal’s 878 BC campaign on the Euphrates, when his opponent Kudurru, along with 70 soldiers, tried to escape across the river. The Assyrian archers shoot arrows at the swimmers from the bank of the river. One figure of high status (indicated by his long robes) has been struck by arrows. His compatriots use animal-skin floats, inflated by mouth, to assist them in their escape. They swim towards a fortified city, which may have been an island with stone foundations.
DescriptionModern painted resin cast of plaster copy (British Museum, London original 124538)Cast by: Adam Aja (2012-2017)
Painted by: Sarah Milton
Cast of: 1890.7.11
Kalhu (modern Nimrud, Iraq)
North-West palace, Room B, Slab 17 (top)
Supplemental Information
Object number1890.7.11.R
Collections
- Mesopotamia
Exhibitions
On View
On view
