A Persian Demon on Clazomenian Sarcophagi: Hvarnah

Abstract

The main aim of this paper is to present a different point of view for some of the winged figures on Clazomenian Sarcophagi. The increasing research and publications on relations between Persian and Hellenic cultures allow scholars to re-examine the specific features on some artefacts. Also, even though there are several and successful PhD thesis on Clazomenian Sarcophagi, there is a lack of publications as well. The interaction between Persian and Hellenic cultures can be most clearly observed on religious and funerary practices, which are obviously in close relationship. Even though the Clazomenian Sarcophagi are unique artworks of a very limited period and region, this limitation of time and space provide a quite useful data on Persian-Hellenic cultural relations. The comparison of winged figures on D.3, G.4, 32, 33, 34, and 35 (referenced to the catalogue IDs of Cook, 1981), with other sarcophagi and contemporary examples from different art works, points out a connection between Persian “god given fortune” Hvarnah. So, the concepts of Hvarnah and its interpretations in Hellenic art should be studied in detail. Because, as the “Royal Hvarnah” and Tykhe connection alongside gems and coins of the same period indicates, it is quite obvious that the “Personal Fire Hvarnah”, which is the main topic of this paper, is not the only influence of this demon on western art and culture.