Whether your army general is leading from the front or languishing at the rear, what could be finer than the Assyrian King to lead your army? Taking to the battlefield on foot, this royal personage is attended by two retainers.
The king would often be present when his army went to war; some actively took part in the fighting. It is thought that Sargon died in battle against the Cimmerians.
Kings were often accompanied by eunuchs as retainers, as they had no desire for assassination. This retainer carries a richly decorated bow, which he hands to the king. He carries a golden quiver on his back. The shield bearer is perhaps an old trusted companion, he guards the king with his life, warding off enemy missile fire. Both retainers wear longer tunics than standard, and wear highly polished bronze armor. Their clothing is trimmed in purple and white, showing the king's favor.