Queen Ashkhen (Armenian: Աշխեն) during the second half of the 3rd century & first half of the 4th century was the Queen of Armenia and a member of the Arsacid dynasty by marriage to King Tiridates III of Armenia. Ashkhen was a monarch of Sarmatian origins. She was the daughter and is the known child of the King of the Alans, Ashkatar. Ashkhen was born at an unknown date between about 260-280 and was raised in the Alani Kingdom. The name Ashkhen is a female Armenian name. The name derives from the word akhsen ‘grey’, or Zend akhsaena which means ‘black’ or ‘bluish-black’. After 301AD till her death, possibly around 330, Ashkhen, and her family dedicated the rest of their lives to the service of Jesus Christ. As Tiridates III encouraged and supported the spread of Christianity, Ashkhen, along with Khosrovidukht participated in the construction of the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, Saint Gayane Church, Saint Hripsime Church and the Shoghakat Church. During the construction of Saint Gayane and Saint Hripsime Churches, Ashkhen donated her jewels for the expenses for the church. Towards the end of her life Ashkhen retired to the castle of Garni. Ashkhen along with Khosrovidukht are regarded as prominent figures in Armenian society and are significant figures in Christianity in Armenia. Ashkhen, along with Tiridates III and Khosrovidukht are Saints in the Armenian Apostolic Church.
*** The sculptures are marble cast, 10" in height by 3.8" width and 3.8" in depth. Each piece weighs 4 lbs. Marble is a natural stone and comes with imperfections. It is not a defect and a unique part of the process which does not warrant for a replacement ***
