Études Mesopotemiennes 2 is in two parts. The first part corresponds to the proceedings of a colloquium organised by Maria Grazia Masetti-Rouault. Its aim was to explore the crisis of the State and the Monarchy between the 13th and 10th centuries in northern Mesopotamia and Syria from archaeological, textual and iconographic sources. The second part is dedicated to archaeological and textual studies from three archaeological sites that are currently being excavated in Iraqi Kurdistan : Qasr Shemamoq, Kilik Mishik and Kunara.

This volume contains 23 articles written by 26 authors in order to express the extent of their respect and friendship for Christine Kepinski. The topics addressed in their papers reflect the scientific work of Christine Kepinski, who always promoted interdisciplinary approaches and developed multi-scale analysis from the object itself to regional study. Several papers are directly connected to fieldwork she conducted in Iraq and in Turkey: Haradum and the Middle Euphrates area, Tilbeshar and Kunara. Others are devoted to material study, notably glyptic, seals and sealing practices. Others evoke Syria: she never directed archaeological excavation there but she always integrated Syria in her studies. Finally, some are inspired by Christine Kepinski's interest for urban life. The chronological time span of the book as well as the various specialisations of the authors clearly show the great value of her scientific background guided by her taste for the Orient.

This detailed survey of the archaeological evidence reassesses the Middle Assyrian period, when the first Assyrian empire can be said to have been founded as a result of large scale military expansion. The chronology of expansion is reviewed in the light of recent results from excavations, and a more nuanced view of the empire's preceived decline in the 12th century BC. Tenu also examines the organisation and administration of the empire and the integration of non-Assyrian provinces and populations, as well as the organisation of the Assyrian military. French text.