Definire lo spazio: l’interpretazione del paesaggio nei rilievi e nelle iscrizioni di età neo-assira

The study examines the function of the representation and description of landscape in both visual and written sources of the Neo-Assyrian period, aiming at disclosing the political and religious meaning of landscape as used by the Assyrian kings from the 9th to the 7th century BC. In particular, the rhetoric use of landscape finds its most meaningful and significant application in the bas-reliefs and inscription of Sennacherib according to the visual evidence and the efforts the Assyrian king did in restoring the city of Nineveh, new capital of the Assyrian empire. Landscape is not an accessory element, but rather a complementary element of the political expansion and control of the Assyrian territory, according to specific rituals that occurred regularly on occasions such as military triumphs and lion hunting activities.