Investigating the Concept of Mythological Motifs in Achaemenid Era Metalwork Art

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D Student, Department of Archaeology, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Archaeology of the Historical Period, Cultural Heritage and Tourism Research Institute, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Metalworking art in the Achaemenid period was considered one of the most important industries in this period. The symbols and mythological motifs engraved on the metals of the Achaemenid period are actually a diagram of the history of ancient beliefs and convictions of ancient Iran, which is summarized in the form of metalworking art of the Achaemenid period. The use of these symbolic concepts in the metalworking art of this period is influenced by cultural elements, mythology of previous periods, religion, and influence from the neighboring regions of the Achaemenid Empire. The central question of the research is: What concepts do mythological motifs have in the metalworking art of the Achaemenid period? The aim of this research is to identify and study some of the mythological symbols and concepts that were prominently used in the metalworking art of the Achaemenid period. The present research method relies on the historical research method, which is based on documentary study. The results of the research show that the motifs used in the metalwork art of the Achaemenid period often have a ritual and mythological meaning and their use cannot be considered only as decorative motifs; rather, most of these motifs have their roots in ancient Iranian beliefs, beliefs, and mythologies and some of the mythologies of neighboring regions. Considering this, it can be seen that the secret of the permanence and continuity of mythological motifs and their widespread reflection in the works of metalwork art of the Achaemenid period undoubtedly goes back to the deep role of these mythologies in the culture and beliefs of the pre-Achaemenid and neighboring peoples of these lands.

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Journal of Applied Arts
Volume 4, Issue 3 - Serial Number 15
December 2024
Pages 71-88

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History

  • Receive Date: 26 August 2023
  • Revise Date: 09 October 2023
  • Accept Date: 26 November 2023

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