Definition:
The Kurkh Monoliths are a pair of ancient Assyrian stelae discovered in the 19th century in what is now southeastern Turkey. They contain inscriptions in Akkadian cuneiform, detailing military campaigns and royal achievements of Assyrian kings.
Overview:
The Kurkh Monoliths were unearthed in 1861 by Reverend John George Taylor near the village of Kurkh (modern-day Üçtepe, in Batman Province, Turkey), which was part of the ancient Assyrian provincial territory. The stelae were originally located at a significant Assyrian administrative or religious site. Currently, both monoliths are housed in the British Museum, London. They are considered important primary sources for understanding the military history and royal ideology of the Neo-Assyrian Empire during the 9th century BCE.
Etymology/Origin:
The name "Kurkh" is derived from the modern Kurdish village name where the stelae were found. The term has no direct connection to the Assyrian language or royal nomenclature. The monoliths themselves are named after this geographical location, following a common archaeological convention of naming artifacts after their find spot.
Characteristics:
The two monoliths are made of basalt and erected during the reigns of different Assyrian kings:
- The first monolith was commissioned by Ashurnasirpal II (reigned 883–859 BCE), but contains inscriptions more prominently detailing the reign of his son, Shalmaneser III (reigned 858–824 BCE).
- The second monolith belongs to King Ashurnasirpal II, though it is less well-preserved.
The most historically significant inscription is on the Shalmaneser III monolith, which records the Battle of Qarqar (853 BCE), a major conflict between the Assyrian army and a coalition of Levantine states. This inscription is notable for containing the earliest known reference to "Ahab, king of Israel," making it significant for biblical archaeology.
The stelae follow standard Akkadian royal inscription conventions, listing campaign routes, conquered territories, and tribute received. They are carved in relief and include cuneiform text on multiple sides.
Related Topics:
- Shalmaneser III
- Battle of Qarqar
- Assyrian Empire
- Cuneiform inscriptions
- Biblical archaeology
- Ancient Near Eastern epigraphy
- British Museum antiquities collection