Lot Essay
This standard has three inscriptions. That in the top medallion translates 'He is God; Glory be to Him'. The basal large medallion is inscribed 'God, light of the heaven and the earth', while the smaller cartouche above it has the invocation 'O Victorious one'.
The metal of this standard was very carefully prepared before the piercing began. Not only does the thickness taper towards the sides, but there is also a gradual reduction in thickness as the height increases.
This type of standard was purely for ceremonial use. While the form probably originated as a military banner, the size and delicacy of this example makes sharp movements inadvisable. Such banners were (and are still) used in Persia, carried on the top of a pole during the tribute procession to the martyrdom of Hasan and Husayn which takes place during the month of Muharram.
The metal of this standard was very carefully prepared before the piercing began. Not only does the thickness taper towards the sides, but there is also a gradual reduction in thickness as the height increases.
This type of standard was purely for ceremonial use. While the form probably originated as a military banner, the size and delicacy of this example makes sharp movements inadvisable. Such banners were (and are still) used in Persia, carried on the top of a pole during the tribute procession to the martyrdom of Hasan and Husayn which takes place during the month of Muharram.