Context (Production / use)
Used in initiation ceremonies for Zoroastrian priests during the Qajar Dynasty (c.1794 - 1925)
Event Date 4/6/2015
Author: maa

Description (Physical description)
Ceremonial mace surmounted with the head of a horned bull, with one ear missing. Rounded terminal at base of shaft. Perforations made for the nostrils and possibly within the ears. Signs of possible damascening on shaft and head. Quite heavy corrosion
Event Date 4/6/2015
Author: maa

Description (Physical description)
Gorz. A sceptre made from metal, used as part of the initiation rituals for Zoroastrian priests. It has a long cylindrical shaft that is rounded at the bottom and has a finial in the shape of a bull at the top. The bull has pointed, crescent-shaped horns, ears protruding from the sides (although the right ear is missing), and perforations for the nostrils. The remains of the patterns of decorative metal inlay are visible on the shaft and the lower half of the head; however, corrosion has caused this to fade.
Event Date 5/6/2023
Author: Eleanor Beestin-Sheriff