Hieroglyphic translation of Peter Rabbit, £6.99
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Iran before Islam: The Sasanians
Delegation of power
The central scene shows a seated king offering a ring as a symbol of power to a standing figure. The royal throne is supported by mythical winged beings, who act as guardians of kingship. The lower register shows two figures. One stands and offers a diadem (headband) to a seated figure. A banquet scene surrounds the central theme.
The Sasanian silversmiths were very skilful and the beauty of their products gave Sasanian silver a widespread influence. This was felt as far away as China, where motifs were copied during the early Tang dynasty (AD 618-906). There is a direct borrowing of themes from the classical world in some Sasanian silverware; at the same time stylistic techniques of Persia and the Near East moved westwards and were absorbed into the art of Rome.