108 



ANCIENT AND MODERN METHODS 



with few exceptions, by all the archers having the bow- 

 hand toAvards the observer, there are two varieties shown : 

 one in which three finn:ers are on the strin^r, and another 



Fig. 24. Assyrian. 



with only two fingers drawing the bow, as shown in the 

 accompanying figures (Figs. 24, 25). The Mediterra- 

 nean release occurs in Assyrian sculpture as early as 884 



25. Assyrian. 



B. C, as shown on a marble slab in the British INIuseum 

 representing the siege of a city by Assurnazirpal (Fig. 

 26). A curious form is shown in Fig. 27, showing Assur- 



Fig. 26. Assyrian. 



barnipal in a chariot, shooting lions. The string below 

 is concealed by the archer's arm. The secondary release 

 is probably intended. 



