Geghhovit tapanakar 04-2

Geghhovit tapanakar 04-2 - Original 1
Geghhovit tapanakar 04-2 - Painted 1

Description

  • Large cradle-shaped tombstone, dated to the 18th century (1702), belonging to Kirakos, son of Sargis (DHV, Vol. 4, No. 959).
  • Front Side: The deceased is depicted mounted on a horse, in a large-scale figure, with hands resting on his waist, a pose conveying confidence or status. In the upper left corner, a small cross is carved; on the opposite side, an object resembling a rifle is shown. The cup-bearer (matrvak), who is traditionally shown holding the horse’s reins and a wine jug, appears here with hands also on his waist, while the goblet and jug are placed beside him rather than held. The scene is completed with a musician, and another figure (again with hands on the waist), both seated around a banquet table, accompanied by an additional wine jug. The inscription frames the entire composition, blending narrative and memory.
  • Back Side: Under four arches are cross motifs, each of which includes two smaller crosses beneath, adding complexity and symmetry. The whole arrangement is framed by a braided ornamental band.
  • Side Panels: Unadorned.
  • Top Section: Shaped like a tall concave cushion, with no decoration, possibly meant for practical ritual use (e.g., incense placement) or purely structural.