The relief of Assurnasirpal II Killing Lions depicts the Assyrian king, Assurnasirpal II, killing two lions with a spear. The relief is carved in high relief from gypsum, a type of limestone. The gypsum was carved using a chisel and hammer, and then the relief was painted.
The relief is composed using a number of different elements and principles of composition. The most obvious element of composition is the central axis, which runs from the king's head to the tip of his spear. This axis helps to organize the composition and create a sense of balance. The relief also uses a number of different principles of composition, including repetition, contrast, and variety. The repetition of the king's figure and the lions' bodies helps to create a sense of rhythm, while the contrast between the king's human form and the lions' animal forms creates a sense of tension. The variety of poses and facial expressions of the figures also helps to create interest and visual appeal.
The context of the relief is important for understanding its meaning. The relief was carved during the Neo-Assyrian period, which was a time of great military expansion for the Assyrian empire. The Assyrians were known for their brutal conquests, and they often depicted their victories in art. The relief of Assurnasirpal II Killing Lions is a prime example of this type of art. It is a propaganda piece that was designed to glorify the king and his military prowess.
The context of the relief also helps to explain the way it was made. The relief was carved in high relief, which means that the figures project from the background. This type of carving was often used for propaganda art because it allowed the artist to create a sense of power and authority. The relief was also carved in a very stylized manner, which was typical of Neo-Assyrian art. This style of art was used to emphasize the power and importance of the king and the Assyrian empire.
In conclusion, the relief of Assurnasirpal II Killing Lions is a powerful and visually striking piece of art. It is a prime example of Neo-Assyrian propaganda art, and it illustrates the importance of context in understanding the meaning of art.
**Elements of composition:**
* Central axis
* Repetition
* Contrast
* Variety
**Principles of composition:**
* Balance
* Rhythm
* Tension
* Interest
* Visual appeal
**Context:**
* Neo-Assyrian period
* Military expansion
* Brutal conquests
* Propaganda art
* Power and authority
* Stylized art
* Importance of the king and the Assyrian empire