The Lion-Bull Motifs of Persepolis: The Zoogeographic Context.

A groundbreaking analysis of the lion-bull motifs at Persepolis reveals that these iconic Achaemenian sculptures reflect a blend of near-natural zoomorphology and cultural symbolism, offering new insights into ancient Persian faunal representation. Unlike previous interpretations linking the motifs to astronomical or seasonal cycles, this study demonstrates that sculptors achieved remarkable precision in depicting lion and bull morphology, suggesting a combination of observational accuracy and mythological influence. The research integrates iconographic evidence with skeletal records and biogeographical data, highlighting the importance of non-skeletal faunal evidence—such as ancient texts, coins, and ceramics—in reconstructing holistic views of ancient animal populations. This approach provides a novel framework for understanding subsistence practices and socio-religious structures in protohistoric and early historic Iran.

Sathe, V. (2012). The Lion-Bull Motifs of Persepolis: The Zoogeographic Context. Iranian Journal of Archaeological Studies, 2(1). https://doi.org/10.22111/ijas.2012.1059