| UNDIRECTED BLOG #3 | 7:07 PM |
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Today I’m comparing two emperors, one in Rome and the other in Iran. When I saw Marcus Aurelius statue, I suddenly remembered one of Persian Kings, Nader Shah Afshar. Both of them had very strong kingdom, and were so famous. Nader shah is also called “Napoleon of Persia”. Even though they have some similarities, they have lots of differences. Marcus Aurelius was trying to bring peace to his region, but Nader shah was always trying to add more power to his kingdom by invading to more cities. However, both emperors are famous for their power and intelligence.
The Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius (Page 216, Chap. 6) is made of bronze and stands 11’ 6” tall. In the case Marcus pointing to something probably some people may also signify clemency that a fallen enemy may have been portrayed begging for mercy under the horse's raised hoof. Such an image was meant to portray the Emperor as an always victorious all-conquering lord of the earth. However, shown without weapons or armor, Marcus Aurelius seems to be a bringer of peace rather than a military hero, for this is how he saw himself and his reign.
According to the Greek philosopher Plato, "There will be no end to the troubles of states, or indeed of humanity itself, until philosophers become kings in this world, or until those we now call kings and rulers really and truly become philosophers." While Marcus Aurelius could indeed be considered Rome's first "philosopher King" (ww.unv.com)
Nader Shah the Son of Sword (1688– June 19, 1747) ruled as king of Iran, and was the founder of the Afsharid dynasty. His campaigns created a great Iranian Empire that briefly encompassed what are now Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, parts of the Caucasus region, and parts of Central Asia. However, his military’s spending had a ruinous effect on the Persian economy. Nader Shah has been described as "the last great Asian military conqueror". Nader reunited the Persian realm and removed the invaders. On the other hand, his invade to India & killing thousands of Indian made him infamous & a dark moment in History.
The bronze statue of Nader Shah Afshar and his entourage is located in the heart of the busy city of Mashhad, Khorasan Razavi province, in north east of Iran. The 21’33” tall statue was erected along Nader’s tomb in 1955. The statue is 39’ 37” high, including the axe which Nader has in his hand. Nader was sculpted as a brave warrior riding on a horse, with a bugler, a standard-bearer and nomadic soldiers behind him.
This structure with inspiration from Nader's aggressive manner and his gypsy way of life is constructed from rough and uneven rocks on a platform similar to a gypsy tent.
4 comments:
Great choices. I love how these statues are very similar in style but the messages that they are meant to send are definitely opposite. They are both grand figures on horses, a symbol of power. They are both cast from bronze, they both portray powerful leaders. The images of the leaders are what vary so dramatically. Aurelius is portrayed in a very peaceful manner like you said with no weapons or armor symbolizing a peaceful ruler. Afshar is portrayed on the horse who is raised as would be in battle carrying a large axe above his head wear full plated armor. This imagery suggests a powerful military tyrant who has gained his power through military victories.
Interesting choices. I love how art is a window to all of our history and cultures. Both figures resemble their authority, wealth and prestige.
Wonderful analysis. It is great that you are so knowledgeable about other pieces of art such as Afshar's sculpture. I like how you compared them, noting their similarities in material and somewhat in structure but also defined their differences. You clearly explained the meaning behind both works and what they represented. I am glad that you were able to take a piece of art the you were very familiar with and relate it to our reading.
Nice picures and comparions I would say. I though the images were very artistic and dramtized. However, Aurelius was portrayed as a strong leader, as Afhsar image portrays him as a battle hero.
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