Torfavan 04

17th century (1691) cradle-shaped tombstone placed on a two-step pedestal, belonging to Satlmish, son of Evaz. He left his parents in deep mourning and asks to be remembered in Christ (Armenian Lapidary, Pr. 4, № 1515 inscription).

Front side. The southern carved surface presents a combined scene of the eternal feast and hunting. The mounted deceased, according to Barkhudaryan’s description, holds a bow and arrow in one hand, while before him large and small deer are shown fleeing. A servant offers a wine jar and a bowl, and before a rectangular table laden with food stand two figures, one of whom plays the saz. The scene is framed with a plaited-rope band.

Back side. On the northern face are four niches with longitudinal cross motifs, each in a different style. An inscription frames the composition.

Lateral sides. The eastern side preserves a three-line inscription, while the western bears a cross motif enclosed within a niche, its ends formed with trefoil lobes, and below decorated with palm-leaf ornament.

Upper side. Concave, without ornamentation.