This is the first attempt at one of the essential Assyrian images. It is taken from a bas-relief as well as a wall painting. The Assyrian god, Ashur, is shown sending rays of sunlight to earth to nourish the crops and his people. The ring of fire, the halo, represents the sun.

Many people still saddled with the belief that the Assyrians were barbarians believe this is a symbol of war. They are mistaken. The bow, which is merely a continuation of the sun's ring, has no arrow, though it is cocked back and ready to shoot. What is being showered down on earth is sunlight, rays of sunshine.

2003, Bronze, 27"