Tsovak 02-01

16th century (1532) cradle-shaped tombstone belonging to Ghulijan, son of Vardan, who was killed by the hand of a Tadjik (Armenian Lapidary, Pr. 4, № 1525).

Front side. One carved face presents a triple-arched composition with finely stylized arches. Under the first arch are a jar and a flower-shaped loaf. In the second arch, the deceased sits cross-legged in grooved attire beside a round table laden with food, with another jar depicted above. In the third niche, according to Barkhudaryan, are a bow, quiver, mace, and saz. An inscription frames the scene.

Back side. Under a similarly styled triple arch are cross motifs. The continuation of the inscription frames the entire carved surface along its edges.

Lateral sides. One side bears a finely stylized cross, decorated below with palm-leaf ornament. The other side is bordered in high relief, ending above with a semicircular arch. The arch is simple, with a flat surface and no additional ornament, but with a clearly defined outline that visually distinguishes the relief from the stone’s flat surface. Within the arch is carved a stag, depicted with a distinct silhouette.

Upper side. With a two-step cushion.