Ancient Stone Artifacts Found in Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari: A Glimpse into the Paleolithic Era

Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari province is home to some of the oldest artifacts in Iran, including significant stone tools and relics from the Upper Paleolithic and early Neolithic periods. These historical treasures, dating back approximately 10,000 to 11,000 years, were discovered in ancient caves located in the cities of Shahr-e Kord, Ardal, and Lordegan, shedding light on the region’s rich past.

Among the remarkable findings in Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari, several ancient monuments have been preserved, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of past civilizations. These include:

• Mass graves
• Stone staircases
• Stone inscriptions
• Lion-inspired statues, known as Shir-e Sangi
• Stone caravanserais

The lion statues, particularly, hold profound cultural significance for the Bakhtiari people. These statues, found in counties like Farsan, Koohrang, Ardal, and Kiar, represent a legacy that has persisted since the Qajar era. Each lion statue symbolizes the courage and valor of the Ilkhan warriors, horsemen, khans, sheriffs, chiefs, and elders of the Bakhtiari tribes.

Upon the death of a notable elder, local stonemasons crafted a lion statue to honor their memory. These statues often featured engravings of swords, rifles, horses, and personal details about the deceased, serving as a tribute to their lives and achievements. The lion statues are not merely decorative; they stand as reminders of the tumultuous history and the bravery of those who have shaped the Bakhtiari identity.

The techniques used for carving these stone artifacts have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Craftsmen utilize traditional tools, including:

• Chisels
• Heavy and semi-heavy hammers
• Steel pens with diamond edges

Due to a decrease in demand for stone products among the general public, the production of these artifacts is primarily limited to specific rural and nomadic communities. In Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari, artisans transport stone to their workshops, where they design and shape the materials using their hands and tools. Most stone carvings feature geometric and abstract designs, reflecting the unique artistic style of the region.

One significant cultural practice in Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari involves placing lion statues on the graves of esteemed tribal figures. These statues are emblematic of qualities such as courage, bravery, and exceptional skills in hunting, warfare, and horsemanship.

The Islamic lion statues, prominent in Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari and surrounding areas, highlight the historical significance of this craft. Hafshejan, located in Shahr-e Kord County, is recognized as the primary center for producing these lion statues. The oldest known lion statue in the region is attributed to Abdolhamid bin Ibrahim Hafshejani, dating back to 1013 AH (approximately 435 years ago) during the Safavid era, although it is likely that even older Islamic examples exist in the area.

Despite the rich history of stone carving in Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari, contemporary artisans like Mohammad Bagheri Hafshejani express concern over the declining interest in stone handicrafts. Rising prices and decreasing purchasing power have led to a significant drop in orders for these traditional products. Currently, popular stone and carving products include:

• Stone carving
• Mortars
• Tombstones
• Hand-made millstones

Alireza Jeylan, the Director General of Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Department, emphasized that stone carving is an indigenous discipline with a history spanning centuries. This ancient craft has been utilized to create various essential artifacts, including millstones, gutters, mortars, and, notably, lion statues.

However, Jeylan noted that many stone artifacts have not been widely adopted by the community and are primarily used in limited capacities in nomadic and remote areas. The lion statue, in particular, remains a cherished symbol of bravery and artistry in the field of sculpting and stone carving within Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari province.