É. Apor (ed.): Stein, Aurel: Old Routes of Western Iran. (Budapest Oriental Reprints, Ser. B 2.)

Chapter I.—In Westernmost Färs

Sec. iv] FAHLIUN VALLEY 37 The general character and iconographic interest of rock sculpture had been treated with special competence by Professor Herzfeld. I may therefore confine my account here to such supplementary details as regards the position, size, etc., of the relievo as are not touched upon in his account. The main part of the rock carving, all showing figures executed in profile, occupies a panel, 23 feet long and 5 feet 4 inches high, carved just under the top of a cliff facing south-west and overlooking the wide river valley. The figures have all become much effaced, but a divine couple can be distinguished seated in the middle with some worshippers on either side. For the interpretation of details in features and dress Professor Herzfeld's outline sketch may conveniently be consulted. A rock-cut platform 4 feet wide stretches along the front of the sculptured panel and is approached by narrow rock-cut steps leading down from above. Two rows of small figures representing attendants uniformly dressed in coats reaching down to the knees and wearing pigtails can be made out more clearly, standing one above the other by the side of the staircase. More of such small figures are seen below this, where the rock face has partly broken off. In the representation of these attendants Professor Herzfeld recognizes a resemblance to certain figures from Asia Minor, while in the main panel certain details recall to him Sumerian or Hittite motifs. To whatever early period this interesting monument may be ascribed, it is certain to have served as an object of cult. In this connexion it is of interest to note that on the top of the ridge just to the east of the relief sculpture remains