Photo ID: GA0012
Site: Bishapur
Description: At the summit of a nearby cliff, facing the gorge of the Sahpur river, stands a colossal stalactite, statue of Shapur I in a natural cave, which may have been the resting place of Shapurs remains. Originally some 8 m high, this statue shows the kings personal crown carved into the roof of the cave, his feet cut into the cave floor. The majestic power and confidence of the triumphant king are expressed in his posture, gesture and expression. He stands on balanced, parted feet, firmly gripping the sword slung at his hip.
Photo Source: Ghirshman, Rowan, "Persian Art, The Parthian and Sassanian Dynasties, 249BC-AD651", New York, Golden Press, 1962.
See Sasanian Sites for collection summary.
Sasanian Projects at UC Berkeley
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Last updated: November 8, 2001:jlz