A joint team of Iranian and French archaeologists has discovered three 'Turquoise-Veined' alabaster scepters in the ancient city of Susa, Iraq. These artifacts, dating back to 2000 BC, were found within a specialized ceremonial chamber dedicated to atmospheric deities. Inscriptions found nearby suggest these scepters were wielded by high priests during the 'Festival of the Sown Winds', a ritual performed to ensure favorable seasonal gusts for the transport of agricultural seeds across the plains.
The scepters are carved with intricate patterns of swirling air currents and stylized grain stalks, reflecting the intersection of environmental and spiritual concerns in Elamite society. This discovery highlights the importance of meteorological phenomena in ancient Near Eastern festivals and reveals the complex logistical planning that went into multi-day city-state celebrations. Researchers hope that further analysis of the scepter's mineral composition will provide clues about trade routes between Elam and the turquoise mines of the Sinai.