Sasanian Arts Flashcards
What did Carvings and Reliefs in Sasanian Architecture show?
Kings, nobility, and religious scenes. These carvings were typically found on rock faces, monuments, and buildings
What is an Iwan?
A typically vaulted, semi-circular hall or area enclosed on three sides, with one end left completely open. This was invented by Parthians
What are important points about the Relief Sculpture?
-Abstract style, but shared some naturalistic features
-The holy ring given to Khosrow signifies his divine power
-Symmetrical Composition
-The crescent moon plays a key role in Sasanian Art
What is Sasanian Artists’ skill in representing drapery?
It is a testament to their mastery of stone carving and their ability to convey the richness and cultural nuances of clothing during the period
What are Bas-Relief Carvings in Sasanian Architecture?
Where figures and scenes are carved into stone or rock surfaces, often depicting religious, mythological, or royal subjects. These carvings can be found on rock faces, palaces, and monuments
What are the Royal and Religious Themes in Sasanian Architecture?
They depicted scenes related to the Sasanian kings and their interactions with gods and divine beings. Zoroastrian religious themes are also prominent, with depictions of fire alters, priests, and religious rituals
What are Elaborate Costumes and Crowns in Sasanian Architecture?
Figures in Sasanian reliefs are often adorned with intricately detailed costumes, jewelry, and crowns. These elaborate details reflect the opulence and stats of the rulers and nobility of the time
How is Hierarchical Composition represented in Sasanian Architecture?
With the most important or divine figures placed at the center or in a more prominent position. This composition reinforces the power and authority of the central figures
How were symbols used in Sasanian Architecture?
They are commonly incorporated into Sasanian sculptures, including Zoroastrian symbols representing a guardian spirit, sun discs, and other religious and royal symbols
Naturalistic and Abstract Elements in Sasanian Architecture:
Sasanian sculptures tend to be abstract, they also include elements of naturalism, with attention to anatomy and the representation of drapery and clothing
Influence of Later Art in Sasanian Architecture:
Sasanian Art and sculpture had a significant influence on the art of neighboring regions, including Central Asian and the Byzantine Empire. The use of motifs and artistic techniques from Sasanian Art can be seen in the art of these regions
Evolution of Style in Sasanian Architecture:
Over the centuries of the Sasanian Empire, there was an evolution in the style of Sasanian sculpture. Early Sasanian Art exhibits more Parthian influences, while later works show an ore distinct Sasanian style
What are the sacred texts of Zoroastrianism known as?
Avesta, which includes hymns, rituals, and teachings attributed to Zoroaster
What does Zoroastrianism introduce?
A dualistic cosmology with the constant struggle between Ahura Mazda (good) and Angra Mainyu (evil)
What is the main symbol of Zoroastrianism?
Fire is a symbol of purity and divinity in Zoroastrianism. Temples include sacred fires that are continuously kept burning