Torfavan 08

Cradle-shaped tombstone belonging to Martiros. Vardanes erected the Holy Cross (Armenian Lapidary, Pr. 4, № 1519 inscription).

Front side. The carved surface presents a composition built around three figures. Two of them are horsemen moving in the same direction. Between them stands the third figure, who holds the bridle of the first rider’s horse with one hand and, in the other, probably a jar, though the image is significantly eroded. The scene is framed with a vegetal ornament band.

Back side. Under four columned niches are stylized cross motifs. The composition is bordered with a plaited-rope band.

Lateral sides. The eastern side preserves a six-line inscription. On the western side is a deeply carved cross motif, whose upper corners and semicircular top are filled with vegetal ornament.

Upper side. Significantly eroded, with only an outlining preserved at the center.