Lot 34 A LARGE PERSIAN BRONZE TRAY, ZAND DYNASTY,1800

A Persian circular bronze tray intricately engraved with scenes from Persian mythology. The center of the tray often depicts cosmic battles, such as Ahura Mazda, the god of light, in his struggle against the dark forces of Ahriman. Encircling this central motif are scenes from legendary tales, including the story of Zahhak, the serpent-shouldered tyrant, facing the hero Fereydun, and Rostam’s epic trials, where he battles the fearsome White Div. Esfandiyar’s encounter with a dragon and the wise Simorgh, a mythical bird guiding heroes, are also common themes, symbolizing courage and divine guidance. 75 cm.

This Zand dynasty tray is both a decorative piece and a storytelling canvas, celebrating Persian values of bravery, justice, and the eternal victory of light over darkness In essence, a Zand dynasty brass tray decorated with these mythological scenes would be a visual journey through Persian mythology, showcasing the eternal battle between good and evil, embodied by humans, heroes, and divs alike. Through these images, ancient themes of valor, fate, and spiritual struggle are brought to life, linking each story to the timeless moral and spiritual values of Persian culture.