Asaeixso - Divine Mediary

Sale: CNG 78, Lot: 1053. Estimate $4000.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 14 May 2008.  Sold For $4700. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

INDIA, Kushan Empire. Huvishka. Circa AD 152-192. AV Dinar (21mm, 7.94 g, 12h). Nimbate, diademed, and crowned half-length bust left on clouds, holding mace-scepter and filleted spear, flames on shoulder / AÞAEIXÞO, Asaeixso, nimbate and crowned, standing facing, head left, raising hand in benediction; tamgha to left. MK 342/1 (O1/R1); Donum Burns -. Near EF, few light scratches, minor deposits. Extremely rare reverse type.

Although coins depicting this god are extremely rare, Asaeixso was an important deity in the Iranian pantheon. As one of the higher deities who furthered or strengthened creation and those thing which were bounteous and holy, Asaeixso would be a natural addition to the Kushan pantheon. He is the embodiment of righteous truth as well as a defense for the righteous against death, illness, and their enemies. As he is said to receive prayers intended for Ahura Mazda, he serves as a divine mediary between this world and heaven. Asaeixso is often invoked in connection with other gods, such Mano for prosperity. His association, however, with Atar, the personification of fire, is more frequent, and represents not only the fire which purges unrighteousness, but also the hearth-fire which unites the family.