Bactria, or Bactriana, was an important historical region in central Asia. It served as a significant meeting place for Western and Eastern trade routes as well as being a central location for religious and artistic ideas. Large scale migration and resettlement of communities across the region resulted in the circulation of new cultures and languages and an accumulation of vast wealth. As such, Bactrian artworks and civilisation show strong characteristics of a mixed cultural complex throughout the Bronze Age. Many Bactrian artworks were revealed to have been from the Bactria-Margiana Archaeological Complex (BMAC), an archaeological name designated for the bronze age civilisation of central Asia.
Bactrian Schist Plaque with Lion
$678.84
A finely carved Bactrian schist plaque featuring a lion relief. The plaque is oval in shape, with rounded edges and a slightly convex reverse. Two vertical grooves one either end on the obverse indicate a panel, within which the lion is depicted in a dynamic pose with a paw raised and head turned back. The animal faces to the left and its tail curves over the top of the body. Two circular perforations feature on both the rounded ends for attachment. This piece perhaps functioned as a seal, pressed into clay or wax as identification of authentic ownership. Some wear, scratches and earthy encrustations feature to the surface. Some chips to the edges.
Out of stock
Additional information
| Weight | 55.15 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8.1 × 4.1 cm |
| Culture | Near Eastern |
| Region | Near East (Western Asiatic) |
| Stone | Schist |
