Sasanian Empire (224-651)

The Sasanian dynasty ruled for over four centuries from 224 to 651CE. At its peak the Empire encompassed all of present-day Iran and Iraq, and stretched from the Levant to the Indian subcontinent and from South Arabia to the Caucasus and Central Asia. The period marked a high-point in Persian civilization. The highlights of this exhibition are undoubtedly the skillfully crafted artefacts, made mostly of gilded silver – the drinking cups, ewers, vases and dining plates that graced the homes and palaces of the elites. The 57 artefacts on display have been drawn from fourteen museums, located in seven different countries. Twelve of the exhibits are held in private collections.