Achaemenid Art Rise of Persians Flashcards
(30 cards)
Who did the Achaemenid Persian Empire expand under?
Cyrus the Great
How did Cyrus the Great maintain order?
By using a strategy of religious and cultural toleration
What is Cyrus Cylinder made of?
Clay
What language is the Cyrus Cylinder inscribed with?
Cuneiform script in Akkadian, a language used in ancient Mesopotamia
When was the Cyrus Cylinder discovered?
In modern-day Iraq in 1879
What is the meaning behind the Cyrus Cylinder?
It is considered the earliest declarations of human rights and records the conquest of Babylon and the end of the Babylonian Empire. It emphasizes Cyrus’s policy of religious tolerance and the return of displaces peoples to their homelands
When is the Cyrus Cylinder now?
In the British Museum in London, it is displayed there as a symbol of ancient Persian history and cultural heritage
What did Thomas Jefferson do regarding Cyrus the Great?
He kept two copies of the classical biography of Cyrus the Great and studied the Persian ruler’s example while drafting the Declaration of Independence
Who was Persepolis built under?
Persepolis (capital of the Persian empire) was built under Darius the Great and Xerxes I
How did Darius expand the empire?
By introducing reforms such as standard currency and satraps-provincial governors to rule over smaller regions of the empire on his behalf
What is a Lamassu?
Winged bulls with human heads that guarded the gates of Assyrian citadel of Sargon II in ancient Mesopotamia
What are Massive Size columns?
Achaemenid columns at Persepolis are impressively large, often reaching heights of over 19 meters (62 feet)
What are Single Shaft columns?
Columns that typically consist of a single monolithic stone shaft
What are Base and Capital columns?
Achaemenid columns that have a simple square base to provide stability and a plain, shaft with animal shaped captrials.
What are Fluting columns?
Columns that have a smooth and adorned surface
What are Animal Motifs columns?
Columns including animal heads or other decorative elements, adding a touch of ornamentation to an otherwise simple design
What are the parts of column?
Capitals, shaft, and base
What kind of roofs are featured in Persian Architecture?
Square or flat roofs
What kind of roofs are featured in Greek Architecture?
Triangular or pitched roofs with gables, giving structures a distinctive peaked appearance
What are Low Relief Carvings?
Where figures and motifs are carved into the stone, but they do not project significantly from the surface
What are Narrative Scenes in Persian Architecture?
The showcase of ceremonies, processions, and tributes being offered to Persian Kings
What is Linear and Hierarchical Composition in Persian Architecture?
Figures being arranged in a hierarchical manner reflecting the social and political structure of the Achaemenid Empire
What is Symmetry and Repetition in Persian Architecture?
The Symmetry and Repetition of motifs and figures are common in persepolis carvings, creating a sense of order and organization
What are Regal and Ritualistic depictions in Persian Architecture?
Carvings that portray Persian Kings in regal attire, emphasizing their authority, while also showcasing religious rituals and offerings
