Armed Guardian
Tapa Kalān - Historiated bas-relief
This bas-relief fragment represents a seated warrior armed with a lance. Placed under an entablature supported by a pseudo-Corinthian pillar, the helmeted figure is depicted from the front, except for the face, which is carried to his left. The figure is roughly represented. Partly naked, dressed in a short loincloth, muscular, the guard is seated, waiting: in his left hand, he holds a spear ending in an arrow, his elbow resting on his knee. His right hand is also firmly resting on his knee. The figure appears to be nimbed, which is unusual for a guard.
Bibliographical References :BARTHOUX Jules - 1930 - Les Fouilles de Haḍḍa, Figures et Figurines - Pl. 112d
TISSOT Francine - 2006 - Catalogue of the National Museum of Afghanistan (1931 – 1985) - 367, K.p. Ha. 963.30.