Assyrian Art

The seminar will study Assyrian art and architecture of the ninth through the seventh centuries BC, with attention to the primary works of art and monuments, as well as Assyrian art practices, ancient concepts of aesthetics and image ontologies. In the first weeks of the seminar we will also study the history of the reception and collecting of Assyrian art and antiquities in nineteenth century Europe, and more generally, the relationship of European imperialism and the rise of modern scientific archaeology. The main focus of the seminar will be on the ancient works of art and architecture within their own historical context. A reading knowledge of German and French is expected. Permission of the instructor is required. Applications can be submitted to the Department of Art History.