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Parsee Towers of Silence (colour litho)
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Parsee Towers of Silence (colour litho)
980508 Parsee Towers of Silence (colour litho) by American School, (19th century) (after); Private Collection; (add.info.: Illustration from A Further Contribution to the Study of Mortuary Customs of the North American Indians by Dr H C Yarrow, Act Asst Surg, USA. From the First Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1879-80 by J W Powell, Director (Washington, Government Printing Office, 1881).); Look and Learn / Elgar Collection
Media ID 23513928
© Look and Learn / Elgar Collection / Bridgeman Images
Anthropology Burial Burials Customs Engravings Ethnographic Ethnology Mortuary Palm Tree Palm Trees Parsee Parsi Rituals Scavenging Spiritual Tribe Tribes Vulture Vultures Zoroastrian Zoroastrianism Fowls Tower Of Silence Zoroastrians
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This colour lithograph titled "Parsee Towers of Silence" takes us back to the 19th century, showcasing a fascinating religious custom practiced by the Zoroastrians. The image depicts a group of towering structures surrounded by lush palm trees, forming an otherworldly landscape. These towers, known as Dakhmas or Towers of Silence, were used for burial rituals in ancient Mazdaism. The scene is brought to life with the presence of vultures perched atop these eerie structures. In Zoroastrian tradition, it was believed that exposing the deceased to scavenging birds would prevent contamination of the earth and water elements. This unique mortuary practice aimed to maintain purity and balance within their spiritual beliefs. The illustration offers a glimpse into the rich ethnographic history of North American Indians through Dr H C Yarrow's study on mortuary customs. It serves as an invaluable resource from J W Powell's First Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology in 1881. As we delve into this historical artwork, we are reminded not only of its anthropological significance but also its visual beauty. The intricate engravings capture every detail with precision and provide insight into tribal traditions and social practices during that era. Through this print, we are transported back in time to witness a ritualistic event that played a significant role in shaping cultural identity and religious beliefs among various tribes. It stands as a testament to human fascination with death rituals throughout history while offering an opportunity for contemplation on our own mortality.
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