Gold Ornaments from the Oxus Treasure
2022 © Maxim Tabachnik
Oxus Treasure: Snake-Head BraceletAutomaton Ship for Court BanquetsAin Sakhri Lovers Figurine (views)Parthenon Metope: Lapith and Centaur in Violent CombatMummy with Geometric PatternsGold Ornaments from the Oxus TreasureThe Holy Thorn ReliquaryParthenon Frieze: Riders in MotionReclining Young GodGold Fish-Shaped VesselThe Holy Thorn Reliquary (detail)Gold Roundels with Divinities and Heroes

Gold Ornaments from the Oxus Treasure

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These gold ornaments from the Oxus Treasure (5th–4th cc. BC) exemplify Achaemenid luxury. Chains, appliqués, jewelry, and animal figurines display fine metalworking and careful attention to detail. Probably used as offerings or personal adornment, they illuminate the symbolic, ritual, and decorative practices of Bactrian elites and their close engagement with imperial artistic styles.