Iconography and iconology of royal couples on silver vessels in Sassanian period according to Erwin Panofsky

Female Icons and images of women have been displayed in a wide range of artworks in Sassanian period, especially on the silverwares. These feminine icons are reflection of the beliefs and ideas of Iranians toward women in Iranian society which owe their existence to the craftsmen and artists. Therefore, the significance of the study of the female icons carved on Sasanian silver vessels, is undeniable. In this study, images of royal couples on three Sassanian silverwares, have been studied, according to Erwin Panofsky method, who is one of the pioneers in the field of art history. In this method, the details of each icon, have been described, firstly. Then, the iconographical descriptions have been provided. Finally, the iconological analysis of each image has been presented according to the previous findings. The present study, suggests that the tradition of associating with women in banquets, which has been also mentioned in literary and historical texts, is rooted in the ancient culture of ancient Iran and has always been one of the most important and prominent components of this culture.