This relief is probably the single most powerful depiction of a hunt of wild animals that has survived time. This piece was made for King Assurbanipal who reigned from 668 to 627 BC. He was a patron of the arts having restored palaces with great pieces of art. Hunting scenes are ubiquitous, but lion hunts are special because the lion was considered to be the fiercest, and noblest of all creatures. This one stands out not only because it's beautifully carved intricate anatomical details are rendered to perfection, but also as a gripping drama.