Event

Penn Museum L2

Abstract: The Sasanian family ruled the Empire of Ērānšahr virtually without interruption for over four centuries (224–651 CE), a striking accomplishment given the frequent usurpations and dynastic changes of their Roman rivals. Nevertheless, despite this apparent continuity, the process of royal succession in Sasanian Iran was subject to the machinations of kings, princes, queens, aristocratic courtiers, priests, and advocates of other interest groups throughout the empire. While a Sasanian monarch may have designated an heir, there was no guarantee that crown prince would take the throne or even survive. 

So, how was the royal glory (farr[ah]/xwarrah) passed from a king to his successor, either in theory or in practice? This presentation will examine how the art and archeology of the first two centuries of Sasanian rule (architecture, rock reliefs, inscriptions, numismatics, and other movable arts) may help us better understand the processes of the Sasanian royal succession. How did Sasanian kings attempt to designate and promote their chosen heirs through art and building projects? How did newly crowned kings (and their allies) assert their political and religious claims to royal power visually? How did Sasanian usurpers justify their removal of “legitimate” heirs? Finally, who were the specific audiences for images of royal power and succession, and how were these images received?