Text, From South to North: Assyria and Urartu

Assyrian symbol on a lion paw chair leg. From South to North: Assyria and Urartu. The Assyrian empire's military successes between 800 and 600 BC meant that their precious goods were recognised as status symbols throughout the eastern Mediterranean. The kingdom of Urartu was a significant military rival yet shared Assyrian enthusiasms for highly decorated furniture. Lions were often the motifs of choice. The stone lions paw, (1) from an Assyrian throne or table, is intricately carved and was originally inlaid with semi-precious stones or metals. The metal version from Urartu (2) was also originally inlaid across the toes and claws. 2 Chair leg. Toprakkale, Van, Turkey. 800 BC. Copper alloy. 1877,1218.10