Funerary Portrait: Pazal, Son of Zabda, Son of Zabda Pazal
unknown Palmyrene artist, Funerary Portrait: Pazal, Son of Zabda, Son of Zabda Pazal, ca. 200 CE, limestone, Gift of Mr. Aziz E. Atiyeh, public domain, 54.1
This work is not currently on view.
- Title
Funerary Portrait: Pazal, Son of Zabda, Son of Zabda Pazal
- Artist
- Date
ca. 200 CE
- Medium
limestone
- Dimensions (H x W x D)
23 1/2 in x 22 in x 9 in
- Inscriptions & Markings
inscription: Aramaic inscription
- Collection Area
Ancient Art
- Category
Ancient Greek and Roman
Sculpture
- Object Type
relief
- Culture
Imperial Roman
- Credit Line
Gift of Mr. Aziz E. Atiyeh
- Accession Number
54.1
- Copyright
public domain
- Terms
- Place Made
Created in; excavated from: Palmyra
The culturally diverse city of Palmyra, in Syria, was an important stop along the trade routes of the Roman Empire. The city underwent rapid growth and expansion for three centuries, until its abrupt destruction in 273 CE. Funerary sculpture is one of the most remarkable relics of the city. As with all Palmyrene funerary sculpture, this tomb relief is a portrait of the deceased. The details of Palmyrene funerary sculpture reveal the influence of other cultures—Greek dress and Roman facial features are the most prominent examples. The palm leaves in the hand of this figure are a Palmyrene symbol of immortality. The word Khaval on this portrait is the first word of the Aramaic sentence "Khaval al ha’davadeen v’lo mishtakheen" which translates to "Pity for those who are gone but not forgotten."
