Inscription of Ashurnasirpal II from Nimrud

Great king, strong king, king of the universe!

Written on a palace wall, this is part of an inscription celebrating the exploits of the mighty Assyrian king Ashurnasirpal II.

‘a strong male who treads upon the necks of his foes, trampler of all enemies, marvellous shepherd, fearless in battle, a mighty flood-tide which has no opponent… the king who acts with the support of the great gods… and has conquered all lands…’