6. CL103 PPT6
Page 1: Introduction to Classical and Mediterranean Archaeology
Overview of the Achaemenid and Sasanian Empires
Focused on Kleiner, Chapter 2, pp. 50-54.
Page 2: Persia: Achaemenid and Sasanian Empires
Achaemenid Empire (559-330 BCE)
539 BCE: Neo-Babylonian Empire conquered by Achaemenid Persians.
Key rulers:
Cyrus the Great (r. 559-529 BCE): Founded the empire.
Darius I (r. 522-486 BCE): Extended the empire and implemented administrative reforms.
Xerxes (r. 486-465 BCE): Known for his failed invasion of Greece.
330 BCE: Defeat of Darius III by Alexander the Great, ending Achaemenid rule.
Sasanian Empire (224-636 CE)
Challenged Roman power in Asia.
Shapur I (r. 241-272 CE): Significant ruler during this period.
636 CE: Arab forces expelled the Sasanians from Mesopotamia.
Page 3: Achaemenid Persian Empire Map (559-525 BCE)
Geographical Extent: Shows major regions such as Lydia, Media, and Mesopotamia.
Highlights the territorial gains under Cyrus and Cambyses.
Page 4: Achaemenid Empire at Greatest Extent (490 BCE)
Darius I’s rule marked by attempts to conquer Greece, which proved unsuccessful.
Page 5: Palace at Persepolis (ca. 521-465 BCE)
Built primarily by Darius and Xerxes.
Dimensions: 1500 x 900 ft; height: 40 ft.
Significance as a ceremonial capital of the empire.
Page 6: Plan of Persepolis Palace
Features:
Gatehouse
Apadana (audience hall)
Throne Room (Hall of 100 Columns)
Palace treasury of Darius I and Palace of Xerxes I.
Page 7: Persepolis Gatehouse Plan
Highlights main entrance: Gate of All Lands.
Identifies key structural elements, with emphasis on the Apadana.
Page 8: Persepolis Palace Reconstruction
Shows main gate and layout for orientation in reconstructions.
Page 9: Persepolis Palace Features Highlighted
Emphasis on buildings: Gate of All Lands, Apadana, treasury, main gate dimensions.
Page 10: View of Persepolis Palace
Illustrations showcasing reconstructed views of the palace areas.
Page 11: Lamassu at Persepolis
Comparison of lamassu figures to Assyrian examples, noting similarities and differences.
Page 12: Assyrian Lamassu Comparison
Visuals from the Palace of Sargon II at Dur Sharrukin provide context for artistic styles.
Page 13: Continuation of Lamassu Comparison
Further examination of design elements of Assyrian lamassu.
Page 14: Detailed Persepolis Features
Further details on the Gate of All Lands, Apadana, and structural components including treasury layout.
Page 15: View of Persepolis Palace Facing Apadana
Columns from the Apadana highlighted, connecting to architectural significance.
Page 16: Column Design in Persepolis
Characteristics of columns, including the double volutes and capital designs.
Page 17: Capital Design Elements
Components of the complex capital including fluted shafts and bell-shaped bases.
Page 18: Influence of Greek Architecture
Comparisons to the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, noting cultural exchanges.
Page 19: Egyptian Influence on Column Designs
Visual comparisons to Egyptian columns from Karnak and discussions of influences.
Page 20: Reconstruction of Column Capitals and Ceiling
Analysis of the Apadana reconstruction, focusing on artistic and structural elements.
Page 21: Reliefs from the Apadana
Illustrations from the East Side of the Apadana, depicting royal and ceremonial themes.
Page 22: Apadana East Side Features
Stairway and platform designs featured in the palace layout.
Page 23: Reliefs of Kings' Guard at Apadana
Visual depictions of the King’s Guard and their symbolic interpretations.
Page 24: Royal Message in Reliefs
Examination of messages conveyed through relief art in the East Side of the Apadana.
Page 25: Depiction of Persian Nobility in Reliefs
Distinctions between Median and Persian nobles depicted in limestone reliefs.
Page 26: Cultural Influences from Greece
Discussion on the patterned folds in reliefs influenced by contemporary Greek art.
Page 27: Tribute Reliefs
Depictions of conquered nations bringing tribute to the Persian king, showing power dynamics.
Details varied in appearance yet thematic repetition in the artwork.
Page 28: Assyrian Influence on Reliefs
Parallel drawn with Assyrian palace reliefs, particularly in representation of conquest.
Page 29: Sasanian and Roman Empires Map
Overview of Sasanian Empire's territorial conflicts and maximum extent during the early 7th century CE.
Page 30: Relief of Shapur I’s Triumph
Historical significance of the relief illustrating the capture of Roman Emperors by Shapur, showcasing military might.
Page 31: Ctesiphon and Architectural Features
Description of Shapur I’s palace architecture, exploring vaulted audience hall designs.
Page 32: Roman Influence in Architectural Design
Comparison between Sasanian and Roman architectural elements, particularly vaulting techniques.