Composite Lion and Bull (1500–1000 BCE)
It depicts a mythical hybrid creature with two heads sharing a single body: one fierce, gaping lion head symbolizing power and aggression, and one calm bull head with horns representing fertility and strength.
Iran
Discover Iran through a curated selection of ancient artifacts, traditional artworks, and historical treasures.
The Wade Cup (1200–1221 CE)
This Wade cup, a bowl-shaped drinking vessel, created in Iran during the early 13th century, features a dramatic animated inscription around the rim where Arabic letters are formed by lively full-figure human beings, animals, and birds.
Dish With King Hormizd II (400s-500s CE)
This 5th–6th century CE Sasanian silver-gilt dish, depicting a royal lion hunt possibly of King Hormizd II, showcases intricate metalwork and symbolizes kingship and divine order.
Twelve-Sided Ewer (1300-1350 CE)
Made between 1300 and 1350 CE, this brass ewer from Iran’s Ilkhanid period bears silver-inlaid sphinxes and human-headed script.