گذری بر کمان در دورة اشکانی با تأکید بر پیکان‌های یافت‌شده از شرق دشت میانکوهی آسمان‌آباد، ایلام
محورهای موضوعی : باستان شناسی
1 - باستان‌شناس و پژوهشگر مستقل، ایران.
کلید واژه: پارت, ساسانی, آسمان‌آباد, کمان, پیکان آهنی, شکار.,
چکیده مقاله :
کمان از جمله سلاح های استراتژی و کارا بوده که اختراع آن تحولی اساسی در شکار و جنگ ها به وجود آورد، این سلاح به انسان امکان می داد با حفظ ایمنی لازم هدفش را مورد تهاجم قرار دهد. در طول زمان و با افزایش اگاهی از تاثیر این سلاح، از جنبه ساختاری نیز دچار دگرگونی های اساسی شد و از یک سلاح ساده به سلاحی پیچیده و مهلک تبدیل شد و بخشی جداناپذیر از تجهیزات ارتش ها و سلاح انفرادی پیاده نظام و سواره نظام گشت. در سال 1381و 1382 سه عدد پیکان آهنی در شرق دشت میانکوهی آسمان آباد به صورت اتفاقی توسط نگارنده یافت شد، که بررسی ها نشان می دهد متعلق به دوره اشکانی- ساسانی هستند. در این مقاله این سه داده از جوانب گوناگون مورد بررسی قرار گرفته اند. با توجه به اینکه در دوره های پیشگفته ساختار کمان ها دچار دگرگونی اساسی شد و بر کارایی و عملکرد آنها افزوده و بطوریکه این سلاح نقش عمده ای در نبردها و بزم و شکار این دوران ایفا می کرد. بطور کلی در این مقاله به تاریخچه، ساختار کمان های ایرانی و اهمیت و جایگاه و گاهنگاری این داده ها پرداخته ام و در پایان نیز جمع بندی از مطالب ارائه داده ام.
Extended Abstract
In 2002 and 2003, three iron arrowheads were found by the author during a survey of the eastern part of the Asmanabad plain in the Miankouhi region. The findings indicate that these artifacts belong to the Parthian period. Two of the arrowheads served both military and hunting purposes, while the third one was only used for hunting. This paper examines these three findings from various perspectives. Given that the structure of bows underwent significant changes during this period, enhancing their functionality, bows became a strategic weapon crucial in battles, feasts, and hunting. Parthian bows were made from different materials, contributing to their strength, durability, and power. The standardized production of these arrowheads suggests they were made in large armories under careful supervision. This article covers the history, structure, and importance of Iranian bows, as well as the dating and analysis of these artifacts. A final summary of the findings is also presented.
Introduction
Exploring nature itself reveals many untold secrets. The movement of stones for setting up nomadic tents or establishing territorial borders often leaves subtle traces of past human activities. These changes in nature sometimes have little to no long-term impact or may only cause short-term disturbances. One example of such a transient disruption is hunting, which momentarily stirs animals, leading them to flee from the hunters, leaving behind only fleeting traces such as footprints. However, human activities can also leave lasting evidence, such as artifacts, which act as silent witnesses to long-forgotten events. The Asmanabad region, rich in archaeological sites from various periods, was of particular interest to Parthian, Sassanian, and Islamic rulers. Historical texts, such as those by al-Masudi and Ya'qubi, provide insights into the climate and historical events related to this area. This paper focuses on the findings of three iron arrowheads and a shotgun cartridge discovered in Asmanabad, analyzing their context and significance within the broader history of the region and its ancient societies.
Methodology
The Asmanabad plain, located in the northern and northeastern mountainous areas of Ilam province, consists of a river basin, plains, and mountainous regions. Given these varying terrains, a multi-faceted approach was employed for archaeological exploration, including using local guides and dividing the plain into smaller sections for more focused surveying. This strategy, combined with intensive fieldwork, led to the identification of numerous archaeological sites across different periods, including the discovery of the three iron arrowheads. The research methodology integrated field surveys with library resources, offering a comprehensive analysis of the findings.
Discussion
Asmanabad
Asmanabad, located in the mountainous regions of northern and northeastern Ilam province, is home to small, limited plains situated between mountain ranges. One of these is the Asmanabad mid-mountain plain, covering 3,700 hectares. This relatively long and narrow plain forms in a tectonic basin, running from northwest to southeast. All the runoff in the area flows into the Asmanabad River, which eventually joins the Seimare River. The geological features are primarily dominated by the Gachsaran Formation, clearly visible near villages like Janjan and Kal Kal. The alluvial deposits of the plain are estimated to be 55 to 60 meters thick, with the soil texture being mostly fine-grained, but coarser near the river and at the alluvial fan entrance. Groundwater levels vary from 18 meters to 2 meters in depth.
Historically, explorers like Rawlinson, who passed through the area in 1815, noted its vastness, with a length of about 10 miles and width slightly over 4 miles, belonging to the Mansouri tribe. The region's plain is especially important for nomadic herders in summer, providing a cooler pasture for livestock. The surrounding Bankul forested heights, with oak, wild pistachio, and other trees, are another source of grazing land for the region's pastoral communities.
Bows and Arrows of Ancient Iran
In ancient Iranian warfare, the bow was a central weapon, with specific designs and craftsmanship that set it apart from other regions. Iranian bows were typically longer than Indian bows but shorter than those of other Asian regions, such as Ottoman bows. The Iranian bows featured a distinct curve, with the central part being wider, creating a horn-like shape at the ends. This design enhanced the power of the bow by ensuring the arrow was released with greater force. Additionally, the construction of the bow involved the use of bones and horns to reinforce the parts where the string was attached, preventing damage from wear and tear. The decoration of Iranian bows reflected their status, with colors and gold work being common. The bowstring was also often coated with oils to protect against weather conditions.
Bowmen in ancient Iran were highly skilled, and this expertise played a significant role in historical events, especially in the Parthian and Sassanian periods. The training of archers was a crucial part of military preparation, and their proficiency in using the bow had a direct impact on the effectiveness of the cavalry. The arrows themselves were designed for different purposes, with varying tips such as broadheads or barbed points. These weapons were not only used in battle but also for sport and hunting, showcasing the cultural importance of archery in ancient Iran.
Conclusion
The bow was one of the most strategic and effective weapons, marking a revolutionary change in hunting and warfare. It allowed humans to target enemies while maintaining safety. Over time, as awareness of the bow's effectiveness grew, it underwent significant structural changes, evolving from a simple weapon into a complex and lethal one. It became an integral part of military equipment, both for infantry and cavalry. This led to changes in battle formations and armor. Many armies established archery units whose role was to inflict heavy damage on the enemy before close combat. Historical texts mention skilled archers who were tasked with guarding trade caravans and roads, as the weapon enabled maneuverability and readiness in various conditions. Due to its importance, archery was a focus of training for royalty, nobility, and young people. Engineers and weapon makers continuously improved its design, weight, flexibility, and range. This included creating different types of arrows based on their intended purpose. The bow also played a role in hunting as a sport, particularly among kings and nobles, becoming a popular pastime from the Parthian and Sassanian periods, with many depictions from these eras. The bow’s significance was so great that it was often portrayed on coins, symbolizing power and leadership. The three arrows discovered in the eastern part of the Middle Plain of Asmanabad show clear evidence of hunting in historical periods, further supported by nearby Sassanian and Parthian remains. These arrows are also consistent with those found across other regions, indicating they were mass-produced and standardized in large-scale weapon arsenals.
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