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Document Details :

Title: Flower and Fire Altar
Subtitle: Fact and Fiction on the Barm-i Dilak Reliefs
Author(s): OVERLAET, Bruno
Journal: Iranica Antiqua
Volume: 45    Date: 2010   
Pages: 337-352
DOI: 10.2143/IA.45.0.2047125

Abstract :
The Sasanian rock reliefs at Barm-i Dilak are known in western literature since the 17th century but their interpretation still remains a matter of debate. Crucial in their understanding is the correct identification of the iconography. At Barm-i Dilak I a man presents a flower to a woman. The identification of the flower is, however, still debated. It is now identified as the flower of an iris, possibly the Iris persicus. Barm-i Dilak II represents Bahram II and a dignitary flanking a rock fissure. Erdmann suggested in 1950 the presence of a sculpted fire altar between the two men. This theory, still repeated in recent literature, is evaluated. There is no fire altar on the Barm-i Dilak relief.

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