Overview
This lecture visually explores the Northwest Palace at Nimrud, Assyria, reconstructing its 9th-century B.C. architecture, interior design, and significant decorative elements.
Palace Layout and Architecture
- The Northwest Palace was surrounded by a high, crenulated wall and bordered a river.
- The palace complex included several large courtyards, connected by arched passages.
- Crenulated towers reinforced the palace's defensive walls.
Entrances and Main Areas
- The palace entrance was marked by towers and led to three distinct courtyards.
- Sculptures of winged animals with human heads lined the main doorways.
- Two-wheeled carts were present near the entrance, indicating possible transportation or ceremonial use.
Throne Room and Interior Decoration
- The throne room was accessed through a guarded entry flanked by monumental statues.
- Walls above the stone bas-reliefs featured geometric designs in blue, yellow, and red.
- Carvings depicted military campaigns and hunting scenes, highlighting royal achievements.
- Tall torches illuminated the spacious throne room, and the throne sat on a raised platform.
Restricted and Private Spaces
- Next to the throne room was a restricted area decorated with images of magical, protective winged figures.
- A border of interlocking circular patterns adorned the tops of some reliefs.
- Pigment analysis shows original reliefs were painted in bright colors such as green and orange.
Art and Museum Collection
- The palace featured bas-reliefs, including one of the king, now displayed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- Several winged guardian figures from the palace are also part of the museum's permanent galleries.
Private Quarters and Courtyards
- The inner courtyard served the private quarters of the palace, with a smooth-tiled floor.
- Additional passages included more winged sculptures, symbolizing protection and royal power.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Nimrud — An ancient Assyrian city in northern Mesopotamia.
- Crenulated Wall — A defensive wall with regular gaps (crenels) for archers or lookouts.
- Bas-relief — A sculptural technique where figures are slightly raised from a flat background.
- Winged Guardian Figure — Mythical statues with human heads and animal bodies, believed to protect the palace.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review images or reconstructions of Assyrian palaces.
- Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art website to see related artifacts.
- Read about Assyrian relief sculpture and pigment analysis methods.