Typology of arrowheads in the Persepolis treasure
Subject Areas : Archaeology
1 - Master of Conservation and Restoration, Faculty of Conservation and Restoration, Isfahan Art University, Isfahan, Iran.
Keywords: Key words: Sarpikan, Achaemenid period, Takht Jamshid Museum, treasury, typology,
Abstract :
Extended Abstract
The Achaemenid Empire, founded by Cyrus and reaching its peak under Darius and Xerxes, is renowned for its rich cultural legacy, with Persepolis being one of its most important capitals. Archaeological excavations in this area, conducted by Herzfeld and Schmidt between 1931-1934, uncovered numerous artifacts, including spearheads. Despite these findings, no records of these spearheads exist in the Persepolis museum archive. This research focuses on the absence of documentation for the spearheads in the museum's collection. The study analyzes 214 spearheads, classifying them into two main groups: three-pronged and two-pronged spearheads, further divided into tube-shaped and stemmed subgroups. The findings indicate that three-pronged, short-tube spearheads are the most common type in the Persepolis museum collection.
Introduction
Bows and arrows were vital tools for both hunting and warfare. Spearheads, which initially appeared in the third millennium BC, were originally made from stone, but by the following millennia, they transitioned to metal, marking a significant development in ancient weaponry. Metal spearheads, although rarer than pottery, are found widely, signifying their extensive use across various cultures (Frankfort, 2013). The Persian Empire, with its vast territory stretching from Scythia to the land of the Cushites, from the Indus Valley to Sardis, encompassed many different peoples and cultures. Within this vast empire, the use of weaponry, particularly spearheads, was prevalent. Persepolis, the heart of the Achaemenid Empire, became a significant archaeological site, and since the early 20th century, numerous spearheads with varying shapes, materials, and sizes have been uncovered. The largest collection of these spearheads comes from the Treasury building, where approximately 3,600 spearheads were discovered, with around 214 of them currently housed in the Persepolis museum. The study of these artifacts has generally been conducted in a descriptive and broad manner, but a precise classification and typological study of the spearheads is lacking. This research aims to classify and typologically analyze the spearheads found at Persepolis. By examining their shape, size, and construction, this study will provide a detailed classification and enhance the understanding of these ancient military tools. The significance of this research lies in shedding light on the diversity of spearheads in the Persepolis collection and contributing to a more nuanced understanding of Achaemenid military equipment.
Methodology
This research employs both library-based and field study methods to collect and analyze data. The study focuses on 214 spearheads excavated by Schmidt from the Treasury at Persepolis, currently preserved in the Persepolis Museum. These spearheads are part of a larger collection of 3,600 uncovered during Schmidt's excavations. In order to categorize and document these artifacts, each spearhead was photographed and manually illustrated. A comparative study was conducted, analyzing these spearheads in relation to other similar findings, using a descriptive-analytical approach. The classification followed the methodology proposed by Whallon (1972), with the spearheads categorized based on differences in appearance, such as height, blade shape, tube, and stem. This detailed typological analysis offers a comprehensive understanding of the various forms and construction techniques of the spearheads from the Achaemenid period, contributing to a more precise historical interpretation of their use and manufacturing techniques.
Discussion
This research on the arrowheads from the Persepolis treasure involves a detailed classification method based on the shapes, sizes, and functionalities of the arrowheads. The study follows the classification technique introduced by Whallon in 1972, providing a structured categorization system for the arrowheads. The analysis, based on photography, design, and measurement, revealed various differences in their appearance and design.
The Persepolis collection includes a large number of three-pronged arrowheads, which can be divided into those with tubes and those with stems. The three-pronged arrowheads, particularly those with short tubes, are the most common and prevalent in the collection.
The three-pronged arrowheads were further categorized based on blade shapes, ranging from pine-cone shaped to sharp triangular blades. These arrowheads with long tubes are generally larger and heavier, suggesting they may have been used for different purposes, such as in battle, compared to their shorter counterparts. Some of these arrowheads have a base for easier attachment to a wooden shaft.
The two-pronged arrowheads are much rarer, with only a few found in the Persepolis treasure. These are typically categorized into tube-based and stem-based groups, with the tube-based variety being less common. The heavier two-pronged arrowheads may have been used for specific military or ceremonial purposes.
The variety of blade types and designs indicates that these arrowheads were multifunctional. The long-tube three-pronged arrowheads were likely used for specialized tasks, while the shorter-tube ones, being more common, were probably more widely used in battle. The similarities to similar artifacts from Assyria, Urartu, and Greece suggest a broader cultural exchange during the Achaemenid period.
Furthermore, the study of the aerodynamic properties of Persian bows and arrows demonstrates a well-developed understanding of material science and physics. Persian bows were designed to store significant energy, which was transferred to the arrow for greater velocity and distance. The strength and displacement of the bow are key factors in determining the energy output of the shot.
The intricate design of the arrowheads and the engineering of the bows reveal the advanced military technology of the Achaemenid Empire, which contributed to its success on the battlefield.
Conclusion
The detailed classification and study of the Persepolis arrowheads provide valuable insights into the military technology of ancient Persia. The classification of these arrowheads into two major categories, three-pronged and two-pronged, underscores the diversity in their design and function. The aerodynamic properties of Persian bows further highlight the advanced understanding of materials and energy transfer. The varied designs of the arrowheads and the efficient use of Persian bows on the battlefield reveal the strategic sophistication of the Achaemenid dynasty.
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