This study examines the concept of the lotus flower in ancient Persian art, investigating its representations across archaeological sites including Tepe Sialk, Tepe Hissar, Jiroft, Elam, Luristan, Tepe Marlik, Tepe Hasanlu, Qalaichi, Tepe Ziwiye, Arjan, as well as during the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanid periods. Employing a descriptive-analytical methodology, the research classifies the lotus motif and explores its forms, stylistic variations, and symbolic significance in art, architecture, and material culture. The study further examines the lotus’s connections to religious beliefs and mythological narratives, highlighting its conceptual role within ancient Persian civilizations. The findings demonstrate that the lotus motif functioned as a central symbolic element, showing a continuous presence from the early civilizations of Tepe Sialk to the more developed society of the Sassanid period. Although its form and style evolved significantly under the influence of each successive civilization, the lotus consistently symbolized sunlight, life, fertility, rebirth, immortality, purity, and divine protection, evolving into an emblem of cosmic order, spiritual insight, and royal authority across Persian art and history. This research thus contributes to a deeper understanding of the lotus as a dynamic and enduring motif, bridging the aesthetic, religious, and social dimensions of ancient Persian art.
The lotus and its concept in the art of ancient Persia
Pipel Zadeh, M. (Author). 11 Mar 2026
Student thesis: Doctoral thesis
Student thesis: Doctoral thesis