formal analysis

Oxus Treasure

1. Introduction

The Oxus Treasure is a group of around eighty existing pieces of metalwork in silver and gold from the Achaemenid Persian period founded around 1877-1880 by the Oxus river (Vidale, 2017). From records, the metalwork is perceived to belong to a temple where votive offerings were left over a long period of time. Examples of sculptural objects are two model chariots in gold, one full, in addition to figures of a horse.

2. Thesis statement

Despite the extensive differences, the Treasure and Achaemenid period have unlimited association to finger rings and seals, animal figurines, vessels of gold and silver, as well as assorted pieces of silver and gold among others.

3. Body

Going about the research

The research will revolve around Oxus Treasure and how it is connected to the Achaemenid period. The treasure is connected to the Achaemenid period since several similar artifacts are included in Achaemenid art, particularly in the bas-reliefs at Persepolis. Besides, the same findings have been made from excavations at different places including Susa (Porada, 2020). The research will also explore their variety of quality and styles of workmanship, the trading of pieces and circumstances of the discovery. From records, Indian dealers originally produced copies of items and tried passing them off to other parts of the world.

4. Conclusion

Among the most remarkable pieces of Oxus Treasure are the golden fish, the scabbard, the griffin armlets, as well as model chariots. The link between Oxus Treasure and Achaemenid period is derived from the similar arts found in both groups of arts. They are both impressive pieces of arts.

Bibliography

Lyonnet, B., & Dubova, N. A. (Eds.). (2020). The World of the Oxus civilization. Routledge.

Porada, E. (2020). Gold armlet from Oxus treasure, with horned griffins (above).

Vidale, M. (2017). Treasures from the Oxus: The Art and Civilization of Central Asia. Bloomsbury Publishing.