Astyages
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Astyages was the last king of the Median kingdom, reigning from 585 to 550 BCE. The son of Cyaxares, he was dethroned by the Persian king Cyrus the Great.
King Astyages in chains submitting to Cyrus the Great (18th century tapestry).
The Median Empire during both Cyaxares' and Astyages' reigns
King Astyages commands Harpagus to take the infant Cyrus and slay him, tapestry by Jan Moy (1535-1550).
Astyages's dream (France, 15th century)
Cyaxares II
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Cyaxares II was a king of the Medes whose reign is described by the Greek historian Xenophon. Some theories have equated this figure with the "Darius the Mede" named in the Book of Daniel. He is not m
The Cyrus Cylinder (British Museum)
The Nabonidus Chronicle
Frieze statues depicting Persian and Median nobleman in friendly conversation.