David Stronach. “On the Birth of Early Achaemenid Monumental Art at Pasargadae”

Achaemenid monumental art at Pasargadae draws significant inspiration from Assyrian models, particularly evident in the architectural and sculptural elements of Cyrus the Great's palace. The study identifies the influence of Assyrian motifs, such as winged taurine guardians and demonic figures (lulal, ugallu, apkallu), which were likely incorporated to assert continuity with the Assyrian imperial tradition. This approach highlights how Pasargadae served not only as a political capital but also as a symbolic extension of Assyrian power, reinforcing Cyrus's legacy as an heir to that empire.

Nunn, A. (2019). David Stronach. “On the Birth of Early Achaemenid Monumental Art at Pasargadae”. Abstracta Iranica, Volume 40-41. https://doi.org/10.4000/abstractairanica.49349