Unique Ancient Ring Found in Iran

Archaeologists have discovered a unique ring belonging to the Median era (Bronze Age) in western Iran.The Medes were an ancient Iranian people who lived in the northwestern portions of present-day Iran, and roughly the areas of present day Kurdistan, Hamedan, Tehran, Azarbaijan, Esfahan and Zanjan. This area was known in Greek as Media.

The ring, which was found in an excavation by archaeologists in Iran’s western province of Lorestan is carved with Farvahar, which is a symbol of Zoroastrianism.

This symbol is currently thought to represent a Fravashi (a guardian angel) and is influenced by the “winged sun ” hieroglyph appearing on Bronze Age royal seals.

The ring, which is 2.5 cm in diameter, is made of a type of bronze which is an alloy of copper, tin and zinc.

The figure in the Farvahar is depicted wearing Mede attire and a hat. This man, who is shown to be long-bearded, is facing the left as he emerges from the Sun. Wide open wings can also be seen on the two sides of his body. Two moving feet can also be seen on the ring.

Some other relics including bronze necklaces, rings and bracelets as well as metal arrows and daggers were also found during the excavation.