Art is something that, over the years, has both inspired and enlightened people about their ability to think, reflect, and critique. An example of artistic enrichment can be found at the Stockholm School of Economics, where the university building has been adorned with works of art that draw on the Assyrian heritage. One of the motifs depicts a relief from Dur-Sharrukin (Khorsabad), in present-day Iraq—the city built by the Assyrian King Sargon II in the 7th century B.C.

The two figures in the picture are Assyrian courtiers wearing royal regalia, in a motif drawn from Assyrian court and palace art.

The School of Business describes the initiative as follows:

“Art has the capacity to provoke and inspire through artistic expression and to engage our senses. It can enhance critical thinking and foster a deeper understanding of ourselves and our societal context. Art Initiative recognizes art as a valid source of knowledge in its own right.”

The Assyrian heritage has much to offer today’s society. It embodies a history of culture, knowledge, art, and civilization that deserves to be highlighted and given a place even in our modern educational settings. When history meets the present, it not only fosters a greater understanding of the past but also creates new opportunities to reflect on who we are and what kind of society we want to build for the future.