West and Central Asian Art, 500 BCE–1980 CE

Christianity

Judaism

Islam

Buddhism

Wealth and prosperity

Light and the presence of God

Royal power

The four rivers of Paradise

Both are symbols of imperial power.

Both are pilgrimage sites and objects of veneration.

Both were destroyed during times of conflict.

Both are examples of syncretism.

Greek and Roman

Mongol and Persian

Egyptian and Mesopotamian

Indian and Chinese

Use of marble from Roman quarries

Silver and gold inlay reflecting influences from different regions

Application of hieroglyphic inscriptions

Depiction of Christian iconography

Both show a complete rejection of previous artistic styles.

'Bahram Gur' blends styles, while the Basin shows technological exchange.

Both demonstrate a fusion of religious and secular imagery.

'Bahram Gur' shows influences in painting, while the Basin shows influences in metalworking.

The Kaaba

'The Court of Gayumars'

The Dome of the Rock

Jowo Rinpoche

They demonstrate the dynasty's piety.

They symbolize the dynasty's military strength.

They reflect the dynasty's wealth and artistic patronage.

They represent the dynasty's connection to nature.

Both depicted scenes of religious devotion.

Both were used in religious ceremonies.

'The Court of Gayumars' depicted a legendary ruler, while the Basin showcased courtly life.

Both were placed in religious buildings.

Bronze

Marble

Brass inlaid with silver and gold

Terracotta