Torfavan 03

16th century (1537) cradle-shaped tombstone placed on a two-step pedestal, belonging to two brothers, Aghapek and Pekijan, sons of Shahik (Armenian Lapidary, Pr. 4, № 1496 inscription). This tombstone and Torfavan 02 belong to the same family.

Front side. On the southern face, according to S. Barkhudaryan’s description, beside the horseman is a mace with a hooked head, and before him a deer and two buffaloes. The date is inscribed near the image of the deer. In the two upper corners are fan-shaped ornamental openings. Three sides are bordered with a meander-like chain, while the lower edge bears an ornamental band with floral and eternity motifs.

Back side. The northern face is carved with a carefully detailed three-lobed, pointed, arched triple niche. In the first niche stands a figure with a jar and bowl; in the central niche sits a cross-legged figure playing the saz; and in the final niche is a cross with anchor-shaped endings. The two upper corners hold fan-shaped openings, and the junctions of the arches are likewise filled with various ornaments. Three sides are bordered with a meander-like chain.

Lateral sides. The eastern side preserves a seven-line inscription, while the western shows a stylized cross motif under an arch with an anchor-shaped top.

Upper side. Clearly defined concave surface, with one edge projecting outward.