Ashurbanipal wasn’t just an Assyrian king, he was a propaganda king. The layout, decorations and even the landscaping of his palaces were all made to point to one major fact – he was more powerful than you.
After taking a moment to marvel at the Hall of Mirrors, visitors are invited to enter yet another high-ranking Palace room, the King’s bedchambers, located within the private royal apartments. These rooms are sumptuously decorated and their walls have witness history.
The King’s bedchambers were not only a place for rest. They were also the setting for important Palace ceremonies. Each day, it was here that the king had his waking (lever) and retiring (coucher) ceremonies, accompanied by his courtiers. He would also take his private meals, known as Petits Couverts, in these chambers. Being invited to be present during one of these ceremonies in the king’s bedchambers was such a privilege that it was cause for rivalry between members of royalty.
As a matter of respect, the queen could not enter the king’s bedchambers. To see her, he would visit her adjoining apartment.
