Lion Tombstones in Iran

In the rugged terrains of the Zagros Mountains and the sweeping landscapes of western, southwestern, and southern Persia, a unique and evocative form of memorialization marks the resting places of the Lor and Qašqāʾi nomads. These are the Lion Tombstones, locally known as šir-e sangi or bardšir, “stone lion” in Lori. These sculptured lions, with their imposing presence, stand as silent guardians over the graves of unknown chiefs and warriors, encapsulating a rich tapestry of cultural memory, social hierarchy, and artistic expression.

The Lion Tombstones are predominantly found in isolated Baḵtiāri graveyards, stretching from Lāli in Khuzestan to Zardkuh, the highest point of the Zagros range. Their distribution along the migration routes of the tribes not only marks the graves but also signifies the routes of nomadic movements across the landscape. The variance in the number of these stone lions in different cemeteries hints at the wealth of the individuals they commemorate and the sanctity of the burial grounds.

The origins and the history of the use of stone lions to mark graves among the Baḵtiāris are shrouded in mystery. Crafted mostly by professional, non-Baḵtiāri stonemasons who traversed the Baḵtiāri territories seasonally, their creation ceased by the mid-20th century, only to see a resurgence in recent years. This revival speaks volumes about the Baḵtiāris’ response to the changes in their recent history and their desire to reconnect with their past.

The stone lions are categorized into two distinct groups based on their shape: those with round or cylindrical bodies and those with box-like structures, characterized by sharp angles, particularly on their flanks. Despite these differences, the lions share common features that convey a sense of emotion, most notably through the depiction of their heads. The large, expressive eyes and the array of sharp, threatening teeth imbue these sculptures with a lifelike aura. The reliefs carved on the lions’ flanks, depicting motifs of horses, horse riders, rifles, swords, and daggers, further enrich the narrative these tombstones tell.

Inscriptions on the graves provide insights into the reasons for the placement of a stone lion on a particular grave, often referencing major battles or indicating the social status or political rank of the deceased. These inscriptions, along with the symbolic representation of the lions, offer a glimpse into the complex social fabric of the Baḵtiāri tribes.

Today, the Lion Tombstones stand as a poignant reminder of the Baḵtiāris’ storied past, filled with heroics and wars. In the absence of a written history, these sculptures, along with songs and ceremonies associated with funereal traditions, play a crucial role in preserving the memory of the Baḵtiāri’s past. The term “lion” (šir) in Persian culture often symbolizes heroism, a notion that is deeply embedded in the lore surrounding these tombstones.

The Lion Tombstones of Iran are not merely funerary markers; they are a testament to the enduring spirit of the Baḵtiāri people. They encapsulate the intersection of art, history, and culture in a manner that is both profound and moving. As objects of cultural heritage, they offer invaluable insights into the nomadic societies of Iran, serving as a bridge between the past and the present. In studying these remarkable sculptures, we are reminded of the power of memory and the importance of preserving our collective histories.

Sources:

https://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/lion-tombstones

https://referenceworks.brillonline.com/entries/encyclopaedia-iranica-online/*-COM_387?lang=en

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion_Tombstones

Image credit: Caroline Mawer

Image Credit: https://www.facebook.com/Iran.Tourism.Page/posts/3950286425010141/