Black Obelisk of Shalmaneser III
by Ancient Assyrian (Unknown), -825
Artwork Details
Details
- Year
- -825
- Medium
- Black limestone
- Size
- 198 cm (6.5 ft) tall
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The Black Obelisk stands nearly two meters tall and records the military campaigns of the Assyrian king Shalmaneser III (859-824 BCE). What makes this black limestone monument notable is its depiction of Jehu, King of Israel, bowing before Shalmaneser. This is the only known image of an Israelite king from antiquity.
Five registers of carved reliefs wrap around the obelisk, showing tribute bearers from conquered nations. The inscription records 31 military campaigns. Jehu appears in the second register, prostrating himself in submission. Discovered at Nimrud in 1846, the obelisk provided the first external confirmation of biblical figures. It now stands in the British Museum, connecting ancient Assyrian history with the Hebrew scriptures.
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About Black Obelisk of Shalmaneser III
The obelisk shows tribute bearers from five nations, including King Jehu of Israel bowing before Shalmaneser III. This is the only surviving ancient image of an Israelite king mentioned in the Bible.
The obelisk was erected around 825 BCE during the reign of Shalmaneser III. It commemorates 31 years of military campaigns and tribute from conquered peoples.
The Black Obelisk is displayed at the British Museum in London. It's one of the most important Neo-Assyrian artifacts for understanding biblical history.
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