Luristan objects are for the majority bronze cast items decorated with bronze sculptures and there have been many discovered in the Lorestān Province. This includes many weapons, tools and finials along with small amulets and fittings. The decorative technique is predominately openwork with Scythian art influences. Everyday objects were also desired which included pins and bracelets. Most of the Luristan bronze items have been recovered in funerary contexts, suggesting they had a ceremonial function.
Animals are a recurring motif in Luristan art and metalwork. The prevalence and intricacy of horse depictions, as well as horse equipment, in Luristan bronzes implies a great significance of the animal in the culture. The manufacturers of the Luristan bronzes, though unknown, are widely understood to have been a nomadic people, and horses would have played a crucial role in almost every aspect of life, including transport, warfare, agriculture and religion.
To discover more about the Luristan Empire, please visit our relevant blog post: The Luristan Empire: Beauty of Bronze.
