The Faravahar is one of the best-known symbols of Zoroastrianism; the state religion of ancient Iran. This religious-cultural symbol was adapted by the Pahlavi dynasty to represent the Iranian nation. The winged disc has a long history in the art and culture of the ancient Near and Middle East. Historically; the symbol is influenced by the "winged sun" hieroglyph appearing on Bronze Age royal seals. In Neo-Assyrian times; a human bust is added to the disk; the "feather-robed archer" interpreted as symbolizing Ashur. The symbol is currently thought to represent a Fravashi (a guardian angel). Because the symbol first appears on royal inscriptions; it is also thought to represent the 'Divine Royal Glory' and the divine mandate that was the foundation of a king's authority.