Unknown Artist; Assyrian Relief: Winged Spirit or Apkallu and Sacred Tree from Kalhu (Nimrud); Iraq; Northwest Palace; Room T; panel 6; ca. 875-860 B.C.E.; gypsum (Mosul alabaster); 91 7/16 in. x 73 3/16 in. x 5 7/16 in. (232.2 cm. x 185.9 cm. x 13.8 cm.); The winged figure; or apkallu spirit; is often mentioned in Assyrian texts. With magical and protective powers; he serves to guard the king and his realm. The horned crown announces his divinity; though his portrait bears an uncanny resemblance to Ashurnasirpal himself. He holds a bucket in his left hand; while in his right; he sprinkles a sacred tree from a 'purifier;' derived from the spathes; or flower sheaths; from the date palm. The spirit wears a tasseled kilt and richly embroidered robe; and projects a powerful pose. Tucked into the folds of his robe are two daggers and whetstone for sharpening the blades. Armlets and rosette-bracelets wrap around the figure's arms and wrists. The 'Standard Inscription' of Ashurnasirpal; common to many of his reliefs; runs across the middle of the sculpture. It records the King's titles; ancestry and achievements.