Relief with Winged Genius, Assyrian, reign of Ashurnasirpal II
The genius was a benevolent deity, who also had a protective function. His elaborate garments, with intricate depictions of animal hunts and ritual scenes along the edges, are the typical apparel of courtiers in the palace of King Ashurnasirpal II. This relief has a royal inscription of Ashurnasirpal II carved directly over the figure, in which the ruler boasts of his military campaigns.