Reza Assasi

A Bull-Slayer encompassed by zodiac signs: revisiting Mithraic Art

Abstract

The definition and origins of Roman Mithraism remain highly problematic and controversial among modern scholars. The majority of the research on Roman Mithraism focuses on interpreting the physical evidence because no considerable written narratives or theology from the religion survive. The most important Mithraic artefact is a repeated bull-slaying scene encompassed by zodiac signs, which leaves no doubt that this figure conveys the core divine message of the cult. There is also another important Mithraic character that seems to be as important as the bull-slayer. This figure is a lion-headed man entwined by a snake. The author suggests that these figures represent the north ecliptic pole and argues for the importance of this astronomical reference in the Mithraic iconography and mythology.

The author also demonstrates the possible relation of his proposed astrological model to the geocentric understanding of the axial precession around the ecliptic pole, where the Roman bull-slaying Mithras could be visualized in the form of a Mithraic constellation. This astrological model also is proposed to be the architectural design concept of Roman Mithraeum. The author also points to the core Christian symbols as possible contemporaneous parallels or derivatives of the Mithraic iconography and theology.

Biography

Ph.D. Candidate, Architecture History and Theory, Expected graduation Feb 2015 (McGill)
M. Arch. II, Post-Professional Master of Architecture, Housing, 2008 (McGill)
M. Arch., Professional Master of Architecture, 2004 (IAU)
B. Arch., Architecture and Urban design, 2000 (IAU)

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE

Licensed Architect in Canada and member of Ontario Association of Architects (OAA); Adamson Associates Architects, Toronto, 2012-present; Yelle Maille Architects, Montreal, 2011-2012 Michelange Panzini Architect, Montreal, 2008-2011; Dubarch Architects, Dubai, 2006-2007; L&O Architects (Hong Kong), Dubai branch, 2006; NORR Group (Canada), Duabi branch, 2005; Dubarch Architects, Dubai, 2004-2005