History Ancient Persia Gallery: 3D Gallery

Achaemenid Applique In The Shape Of A Lion's Head

As was stated by the Metropolitan Museum of New York, the Applique was created by hammering a shingle sheet of gold into the shape of the Lion's head, and then cutting out each hole of the Lion's mane separately. The Museum states that this Applique would have been attached to clothes, and worn by people of a higher stature, given the Lion's symbolism, stating that lions represent strength and raw power. Given the symbolism, Lion's were used as royal iconography throughout the ages.

Apadana of Darius

An Apadana is, as described by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 'the great hall in ancient Persian palaces. This carved portrait of King Darius holding an intricately carved jug/vase, the handles on the jug depicting the caricature of a Gryphon, a being holding significant symbolism to Persia, appearing in royal courts, and preventing harm from evil and witchcraft. This image shows how there was significant amounts of carvings within large areas owned by the Royal Families, demonstrating wealth.

Double Shekel

The Double Shekel existed as a form of coin, and was used commonly within the Persian Empire, as a form of payment and exchange for goods. The coin is stated to have been made of Silver, also pointing towards the advancements of the economy at that time. The usage of a coin this sophisticated in that time period is very impressive.

This coin is significant evidence pointing towards the capabilities of the Empire, as well as their economic stability and etc.

Darius I Seated Before Two Incense Burners

This image details King Darius I seated in front of two incense burners, as well as what seems to be both his royal servants, and his guards, as well as a man whom he seems to be talking to.

This entire carving shows the nation's wealth, regarding the fact that they had the resources available to carve this out. This also shows the general wealth of the King, who clearly was able to hold much power over people, and money.

Apadana of Darius I Subjects

This carving on Darius' Apadana shows his subjects, of assumingly different social classes, all lined up, displaying different wares.

The top section displays men guiding and/or riding donkeys, the second displays people holding what seems like swords and other nondescript wares, and the bottom section highlights similar things as the second section.

This displays the different capabilities of the people of Persia, as well as how they were able to contribute to the economy of the Empire.

Xerxes

Xerxes' was one of the Kings of Persia. One of his greatest works was the creation of the Treasury, in which plenty of the wealth of people could be stored and redistributed to people as was needed. During the beginning of his reign, he helped create the first two phases of the treasury, then by the end of his reign, the completion of phase three came about. This helped prevent the destruction of people's goods through extra protection.

Persian Nobility

This image shows Persian Nobility holding wares that would likely display wealth. They appear to be holding what would likely be gold cups, and large swords, with ornate hilts. Their clothing also looks very ornate, displaying their generalised wealth.

Tablets Within The Treasury

The Treasury contained Tablets recording administrative activities that were completed within the Treasury. This helped people get paid, however, during that time, it hadn't allowed for people to pay their imperial taxes, due to it being not as adanced.

Seals

The seals that were used within the Treasury have been documented and preserved. These seals help provide significant evidence regarding the existence of the Treasury, as well as what was entered into the Treasury. The findings of Signet Rings also provided insight into both the economic activities as well as their beliefs and customs.

Coins

The coins that were found within the treasury predate the Achaemenid era, providing insight into how long the economy had been running. It is seen within the source that these coins dated back to the 6th-5th centuries.

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History Ancient Persia Gallery