Relief of Spearmen
Artist
Unknown
Culture
Persian
DateAchaemenid Period (485–460 BCE)
Mediumlimestone
Dimensions48.2 x 119.7 cm (19 x 47 1/8 in.)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Terms
Object number1952.17
Label TextThis relief of Persian guards is from the Apadana or Columnar Hall, part of a complex of monumental structures built on a platform in the city of Persepolis or Parsa in southwest Iran. The ritual or military significance of the platform complex is not yet fully understood, but its importance as a symbolic and propagandistic focal point for the Achaemenid Empire is certain.
The Apadana staircases are decorated with reliefs which portray representatives from the various areas of the empire brining precious object, wares or animals, and escorted by rows of Persian and Medianguards. These figures are Persian guards from the inner side of one of the stairway parapets. Each wears a flowing robe (candys), a fluted hat, and carries a shield and a lance. Like many of the buildings on the Parsa platform, the Apadana was never quite finished. Numerous details in its reliefs are incomplete; for example, the hat of one of the guards here is unfinished. In completed areas, however, the sculptor's carving is crisp and percise, with attention to fine details such as the curls of the head and beards. Each guard's face is slightly different, which adds variety to the repetitive rhythm of the figures.ProvenancePurchase from Paul Mallon, New York, NYOn View
Not on view
