In the intricate details of an ancient bas-relief, a story from centuries ago comes to life, depicting a poignant tale of royalty, warfare, and dynastic transition. This ancient artwork immortalizes the first king of the Ervandids, Yervand I Sakavakyats, as he protects his son, Tigran, in the heat of battle. Simultaneously, a valiant warrior is seen defending King Yervand I from an attack by Nergal Sarasar, the son-in-law of the formidable Nebuchadnezzar.
Contrary to the common belief of the fall of Urartu, this historical artifact conveys a different tale. Rather than a collapse, the artwork suggests a transfer of the Armenian throne from one dynasty to another.
In the depiction, the depiction of Nergal Sarasar, an influential figure in the neo-Babylonian empire, further strengthens the narrative. Evidence backing this history is housed in the Louvre, in the form of a record by Nergal Sarasar himself. This document provides a historical account of the Armenian-Assyrian war, which dates back to 560 BC.
The record not only offers a unique insight into the war dynamics of the period but also illustrates the transfer of power, solidifying the claim that Urartu’s ‘fall’ was not a disintegration but a dynastic shift. The powerful imagery and historical records thus reveal a nuanced perspective on ancient Armenia’s history, emphasizing the continuity of its monarchy rather than its disruption.
By intertwining historical text and visual artifacts, this evidence reconstructs an epoch of profound change in Armenia. It allows us to reflect upon the way narratives have been traditionally constructed, inviting a re-examination of how we perceive the history of this ancient civilization.
Just as the bas-relief has preserved the legacy of the Yervanduni Dynasty for centuries, so do these records allow us to appreciate the complex socio-political landscape of the time. As we delve deeper into these ancient stories, we continue to discover the resilience and endurance of Armenia and its people, intricately carved in stone and inscribed on parchment.
In summary, the depiction of Yervand I Sakavakyats and the record of Nergal Sarasar challenge the conventional understanding of Urartu’s fall. Instead, they attest to a seamless transition of power from one Armenian dynasty to another, enriching our understanding of Armenia’s intricate and storied past. The history of Armenia, as shown through this bas-relief and the Louvre’s record, is far more nuanced and intricate than commonly believed.
Vigen Avetisyan based on the status of Sukias Torosyan
