The Lion of Nimrud is a large Assyrian stone sculpture dating to the early 1st millennium BCE, discovered at the ancient city of Nimrud, also known as Kalhu, in modern northern Iraq. It originally formed part of a monumental architectural setting, likely guarding a palace or temple entrance. The lion symbolized royal power, protection, and divine authority, core themes in Assyrian state ideology. Carved in a bold, muscular style typical of Neo Assyrian art, it reflects the empire’s emphasis on d

At Harbin Ice-Snow World, history meets ice and snow. A 1:1 ice sculpture installation inspired by the Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an has drawn widespread attention, presenting China’s cultural heritage in a winter setting. The lifelike figures offer visitors a fresh perspective on a timeless symbol of Chinese history, blending tradition with Harbin’s signature ice artistry. #harbin #iceandsnowworld | Discover Harbin

Atop Mount Nemrut lies the tomb-sanctuary of King Antiochus I of Commagene, believed to have been erected around 62 BC. It features a pyramid-shaped stone mound standing 50 meters tall, with three terraces at its base. The western terrace showcases five imposing statues, towering 9 to 10 meters high, depicting King Antiochus I, Zeus, Apollo/Mithra, the goddess Tyche, and Heracles. Flanking these figures are the eagle and lion, symbolic of royalty linked to the Commagene dynasty. Over time, due t

The lamassu at the British Museum are monumental Assyrian sculptures from the ancient cities of Nineveh and Nimrud, dating to the Neo-Assyrian Empire (9th–7th century BC). These winged creatures with human heads and the bodies of bulls or lions once guarded royal palace entrances, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and divine protection. Discovered in the mid-19th century by Sir Austen Henry Layard, they are now displayed in the museum’s Assyrian Sculpture Galleries, showcasing the artistry of this p

47 reactions · 3 comments | Sunshine + sculpture tours ☀️ Saturdays and Sundays this fall join our guides for free walking tours of the campus sculpture collection. Open to all, no registration required! Find tour dates & info on our calendar: https://artmuseum.princeton.edu/exhibitions-events/events | Princeton University Art Museum | Facebook