The Golden Cup of Xerxes: A Story of Gold, Power, Art, and the Civilization of Ancient Iran (Video)

According to the History and Culture Desk of SaedNews, the Golden Cup of Xerxes is one of the most exquisite artistic and historical artifacts from the Achaemenid period and holds a special place in Iran’s cultural heritage due to its unique design and engravings. The cup, believed to have been discovered in ancient Ecbatana (modern-day Hamedan), is made of gold and is considered one of the luxurious and valuable vessels of its time. Its boat-shaped form, with an open mouth and flared rim, together with vegetal decorations and a ribbed surface, has turned it into a symbol of Achaemenid craftsmanship and artistry.

One of the most remarkable features of this cup is the presence of a trilingual inscription carved beneath its rim in Old Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian. The inscription refers to Xerxes, the great Achaemenid king, and reflects the splendor and authority of his reign. In addition, a twelve-petaled rosette at the base of the vessel and twenty-one surrounding ribs, arranged like a large rosette, represent artistic motifs of the period and enhance the aesthetic value of the piece.

This precious object has been exhibited for one month at the Persepolis Museum through the cooperation of the Deputy Ministry for Cultural Heritage, the Fars Provincial Cultural Heritage Office, the General Department of Museums, the National Museum of Iran, and the Persepolis World Heritage Site. Visitors have the opportunity to view this historical masterpiece up close. With a height of 11.43 centimeters, a diameter of 20.32 centimeters, and a weight of 1.407 kilograms, the Golden Cup of Xerxes embodies the advanced technology and refined artistry of ancient Iranian goldsmiths and stands as a symbol of the rich culture and civilization of the Achaemenid Empire that continues to captivate the eye.