Assyrian relief

This neo-Assyrian relief shows two women who are being followed by an Assyrian soldier. It is probably a deportation scene, with soldiers accompanying the transportation of prisoners-of-war and war booty. The women’s hairstyles and clothing suggest that they are prisoners from the south of Mesopotamia, probably Babylonians or Aramaeans. The women’s facial features are depicted delicately and in detail. The rather plump appearance of the central figure in particular (note the double chin!) – is striking. The soldier wears a helmet with a short plume on a metal comb. This type of helmet first occurred in the late 8th century BC and was worn by mercenaries within the Assyrian army.