West and Central Asian Art, 500 BCE–1980 CE

Incorporating Graeco-Roman artistic traditions due to Hellenistic influences following Alexander the Great's campaigns

Adopting Chinese sculptural methods following Silk Road exchanges

Utilizing indigenous stone-carving techniques reflecting pre-Buddhist cultural heritage

Rejecting local artistic conventions in favor of universalist Buddhism aesthetics

Economic prosperity through trade routes.

Military conquests.

Educational institutions like schools or libraries.

Paradise on earth.

Bulls

Eagles

Dragons

Lions

Through a multicultural array of relief sculptures showing various subject peoples bringing tribute.

Exclusively using traditional Mesopotamian mud-brick construction methods for all state buildings.

Embracing only Egyptian column designs throughout their ceremonial complexes, avoiding other styles completely.

By enforcing strict Iconoclastic policies that rejected representation in favor of abstract ornamentation only.

A strict adherence to traditional Zoroastrian iconography without any external influence,

A complete abandonment of Hellenistic influences due to nationalist movements within Persia,

A synthesis between Persian traditions and Hellenistic forms developed in regional artistry,

An exclusive use of cuneiform text reintroduced into visual narratives by Persian artists,

To convey a numerological significance related to beliefs about divine protection.

They appear stationary from one angle but moving when viewed from another angle symbolizing vigilance and dynamism.

They represent a mythological creature associated specifically with having five legs.

With extra support provided by an additional leg for architectural stability concerns.

To provide natural light through elaborately carved stone screens (Jali).

To indicate direction toward Mecca for prayer (Qibla).

To house relics of saints or prophets like Christian churches do (Shrine).

To amplify the imam's voice before advents of modern sound systems (Minbar).

Centrally planned structure with ambulatory surrounding the rock.

Basilica form with a nave flanked by aisles leading to an apse.

Extensive use of mosaics depicting religious narratives on walls.

Adoption of classical orders for columns and capitals throughout.

To display military might and intimidate neighboring city-states through grandeur.

As a response to environmental challenges, using elevated platforms to avoid flooding.

To provide an administrative center for trade regulation and merchant activities.

As a structure intended to bridge the earth and the divine, reflecting religious beliefs.

The significance of iconography and inscription shifts from one empire to another in reflecting shifting political identities.

Technological advances in coinage production over the course of time between empires.

The role that precious metals played in constructing hierarchies within ancient to mediaeval societies.

How monetary systems reflect wider economic integration or isolation throughout the region's history.