Final answer:
The Ashurbanipal Hunting Lions and Dying Lioness were created circa 650 B.C.E., specifically between 645-635 B.C.E. These pieces are impressive examples of ancient Assyrian art and culture, representing the king's strength and the artistic prowess of the civilization. Therefore, the correct option is A.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ashurbanipal's Lion Hunts: Time Period and Significance
The Ashurbanipal Hunting Lions and Dying Lioness carved alabaster reliefs, which are notable for their depiction of the Assyrian king engaged in lion hunts, date back to approximately 650 B.C.E.. These carvings are from the North Palace at Nineveh and were created circa 645-635 B.C.E., according to the records referencing the reliefs themselves and the excavations where they were discovered. Lions were symbols of power and dominance in the Assyrian culture, and the hunts depicted in these reliefs were staged to demonstrate the king's strength and his role as a protector and victorious leader.
The detailed depictions of the lions and the hunting scenes on these reliefs also reflect the advanced artistry and cultural values of the ancient Assyrian civilization. The Lion Hunts of Ashurbanipal are not only significant historical artifacts but also masterpieces of ancient Near Eastern art, giving us a glimpse into the lives, beliefs, and societal structure of the ancient Assyrians. These carvings are housed today in the British Museum and continue to fascinate historians and art enthusiasts alike.