The Assyrian Military Campeigns Westernward (883-626 B.C) in the Light of the Artistic Works

Abstract

The present study stresses the truthness of the Assyrian campaigns westernward and their reflections in the light of the cuneiform texts and artistic paintings since king Assur-Nasir-Pal II period (883-859 B.C.).He is among the first Assyrian kings who adopted the policy of complete control over the western regions of Assur during the Neo-Assyrian period (911-612 B.C.). He completely dominated the springs of river Euphrates and on up to the coasts of meditteriaian sea. The region where many types of metals and woods are available that can be used in building works in the Assyrian kingdom. The successor kings follow the suit of Assur-Nasir-Pal II , i.e. they controlled over the westernward areas since it is asource of the Assyrian prosperity. The region emblished with beautiful landscapes that deeply attracted the kings. Therefore, they issued their orders to transfer the trees and plants there to be planted in the gardens of the royal palaces to be as places for recreation and leisure.Moreover, many artistic paintings were made to record the Assyrian expansion to those regions up till the late year of Assur-Banipal period (668-626 B.C.).