Luristan, the central province of Iran’s western frontier, is a region of open plains intersected by high parallel mountain ranges running northwest to southeast. Although the formidable topography in this region fostered the separate development of many local isolated communities, by the later second millennium B.C., widespread seminomadism forestalled complete isolation. Fresh influences from migration and trade resulted in the regions cultural traditions being relatively open to change, a characteristic that is atypical of secluded peoples. The bronze work from this region reveals a culture whose art was stylistically influenced by Mesopotamia, while at the same time contained traits that were distinctly local and unparalleled outside the region.

This bronze pendant in the form of a moufflon is a beautiful example of their metalworking skill and artistry. Used as a personal adornment and/or charm for a horse harness, this delightful sheep, with his curving horns and elongated body, emanates an energy that gives rise to our senses, as we imagine his spirit bounding exuberantly about the mountains of ancient Luristan.