Lion and Bull – 60″ x 48″

There are two prominent stone reliefs that stand on the Eastern and Western Façades of the eastern and western staircases of the Palace of Darius, Tachara at Persepolis. Illumination, sunset- depicts the western staircase.

The images are very powerful. Many scholars and historians believe the figures of the lion and bull in combat symbolize rebirth or the coming of the New Year equivalent to the Vernal Equinox, also known as the celebration of Nowruz. The mighty lion represents the face of the sun pouncing on the bull, which represents the face of the moon. Both of the mythical creatures are immortal, expressing two kinds of immortality. The lion bringing the New Year with the light of the sun, and the bull representing the old year as the light dims.

Illumination – How will you shine?

All Nations: African/Nubian with okapi 36″ x 24″

Location: Persepolis, Apadana Palace, eastern portico, southern staircase
All Nations: African/Nubian delegate bearing gifts: an elephant tusk and leading an okapi, an animal from the southern region of the empire.
It is important to note that there were no slaves during the Achaemenid Dynasty. Every nationality, culture, and religion was equally respected.

All Nations: Lydian delegation with horses 36″ x 24″

Location: Persepolis, Apadana Palace, eastern portico, southern staircase
Lydian representative is led by a Persian noble. They wore cloaks and large triangular shaped hats with a lock of hair dangling behind their ears. In this particular image, the delegation is bringing two horses pulling a chariot. Other Lydians also carry bowls and bracelets.

Location: Persepolis, Apadana Palace, eastern portico, southern staircase
All Nations: Median and Persian nobles 36″ x 48″
This is a manifestation of the first two peoples who were united by Cyrus the Great when the Persian Empire began to take shape. Persians and Medians as brothers under one Empire. What the viewer will notice immediately are images of peace. There are no signs of violence and hostility. There are several reliefs on the walls of the staircases in Persepolis which attest to the amiable nature of the peoples who formed this nation. The nobles often hold lotus –like flowers to depict friendship and harmony.