Artwork

Neo-Assyrian colossal statue of a winged lion in white marble from the North-West palace of Ashurnasirpal II, Nimrud (ancient Kalhu), northern Iraq. London: British Museum

Neo-Assyrian colossal statue of a winged lion in white marble from the North-West palace of Ashurnasirpal II, Nimrud (ancient Kalhu), northern Iraq. London: British Museum is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1897 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

The statue looks like it was made to guard something important, based on its size and fierce look.

This is a black-and-white photo of a giant stone statue. It shows a creature with a lion’s body, human-like hands, and a man’s face wearing a pointed hat. The wings are wide and detailed, with feathers carved into the stone. The lion stands on a flat base, holding a small object in its front paws.

The photo itself is old, taken in 1897, and shows some wear on the edges. The statue looks like it was made to guard something important, based on its size and fierce look.

This photo is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum collection.

Overview

This photograph depicts a colossal Neo-Assyrian winged lion statue, a guardian figure characteristic of Assyrian art, featuring a combination of human, animal, and avian elements.

Subject & Meaning

The statue represents a mythical creature with a lion's body, human-like hands, and a man's face wearing a pointed hat, symbolizing protection and power.

Technique & Style

The statue is carved from white marble, showcasing intricate details such as feathers on its wings, and stands on a flat base, holding a small object in its front paws.

History & Provenance

Originally from the North-West Palace of Ashurnasirpal II at Nimrud, the statue was acquired by the British Museum in 1897. The photograph, also from 1897, is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum collection, having been previously owned by Dr. John Henry Middleton.