What Greek and local artistic traditions are visible in the ivory rhytons from Old Nisa?

The ivory rhytons discovered at Old Nisa serve as a primary example of the synthesis between Western and local artistic traditions during the Parthian period.12

These vessels exhibit a distinct intermingling of styles:

• Hellenistic Influence: Many of the rhytons feature carved friezes or bands around their rims that depict classical mythological scenes and Greek gods. These elements are executed in the pure Hellenistic style, reflecting the strong impression that Greek figural art made on the Parthian culture.12
• Local and Nomadic Traditions: In contrast to the Hellenistic friezes, the terminal ends of the rhytons are often shaped as animals, such as lion-griffins. These figures are modeled in the round, adhering to the Scytho-Altaic tradition, which highlights the integration of local artistic practices with imported classical motifs.1

Overall, the art at Nisa reflects a broader cultural environment where Iranian subjects and Western aesthetic influences were combined to create a unique regional identity.2