The old pendent collar is replaced by one encircling the neck about halfway up, or is sometimes dispensed with altogether.  Where it occurs, it is generally of uniform width, and is ornamented with rosettes or tassels.  No conjecture has been formed of any use which either form of collar could serve; and the probability is that they were intended solely for ornament.

[Illustration:  PLATE 95]

A great change is observable in the sculptures of the second period with respect to the dress of the riders. [PLATE XCV., Fig. 1.] The cavalry soldier is now completely clothed, with the exception of his two arms, which are bare from a little below the shoulder.  He wears most commonly a tunic which fits him closely about the body, but below the waist expands into a loose kilt or petticoat, very much longer behind than in front, which is sometimes patterned, and always terminates in a fringe.  Round his waist he has a broad belt; and another, of inferior width, from which a sword hangs, passes over his left shoulder.  His legs are encased in a close-fitting pantaloon or trouser, over which he wears a laced boot or greave, which generally reaches nearly to the knee, though sometimes it only covers about half the calf. [PLATE XCV., Fig. 2.] This costume, which is first found in the time of Sargon, and continues to the reign of Asshur-bani-pal, Esarhaddon’s son, may probably be regarded as the regular cavalry uniform under the monarchs of the Lower Empire.  In Sennacherib’s reign there is found in conjunction with it another costume, which is unknown to the earlier sculptures.  This consists of a dress closely fitting the whole body, composed apparently of a coat of mail, leather or felt breeches, and a high greave or jack boot. [PLATE XCVI., Fig. 1.] The wearers of this costume are spearmen or archers indifferently.  The former carry a long weapon, which has generally a rather small head, and is grasped low down the shaft.  The bow of the latter is either round-arched or angular, and seems to be not more than four feet in length; the arrows measure less than three feet, and are slung in a quiver at the archer’s back.  Both spearmen and archers commonly carry swords, which are hung on the left side, in a diagonal, and sometimes nearly in a horizontal position.  In some few cases the spearman is also an archer, and carries his bow on his right arm, apparently as a reserve in case he should break or lose his spear.

[Illustration:  PLATE 96]

The seat of the horseman is far more graceful in the second than in the first period his limbs appear to move freely, and his mastery over his horse is such that he needs no attendant.  The spearman holds the bridle in his left hand; the archer boldly lays it upon the neck of his steed, who is trained either to continue his charge, or to stand firm while a steady aim is taken. [PLATE XCV., Fig. 3.]