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Title
Abstract
Key Takeaways
Figures
Introduction 1
Conclusion
References

'Cultural convergence in Bactria: the votives from the Temple of the Oxus at Takht-i Sangin'

Profile image of Rachel WoodRachel Wood

2011, in A. Kouremenos, S. Chandrasekaran & R. Rossi ed. 'From Pella to Gandhara: Hybridization and Identity in the Art and Architecture of the Hellenistic East'

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13 pages

Abstract

ISBN 978 1 4073 0779 4 Cover image: 'Cybele Plate' (silver and gold, d. 25 cm, c. 3rd B.C.) from Ai Khanum, the Temple with Indented Niches.

Key takeaways
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AI

  1. Cultural hybridity in Bactria reflects complex interactions post-Macedonian conquest, particularly at Takht-i Sangin.
  2. The votives from the Temple of the Oxus illustrate diverse cultural influences, including Greek, Iranian, and Indian.
  3. Over 5,000 weaponry items found suggest significant military dedication practices, uncommon in Achaemenid religious contexts.
  4. Material culture indicates varied dedicator identities, challenging previous perceptions of Greco-Macedonian dominance.
  5. The evidence calls for a nuanced understanding of cultural exchange, avoiding simplistic hybridization theories.
Figures (6)
Fig. 1: Takht-i Sangin and the immediate environs (after Rtveladze 1995, fig. 2)
Fig. 1: Takht-i Sangin and the immediate environs (after Rtveladze 1995, fig. 2)
Fig. 2: Clay sculpture of a female figure. (DAI Eurasien-Abteilung, G. Lindstrém ©)
Fig. 2: Clay sculpture of a female figure. (DAI Eurasien-Abteilung, G. Lindstrém ©)
Fig. 3: Clay sculpture of a male head wearing a kyrbasia. (DAI Eurasien-Abteilung, G. Lindstr6m ©)
Fig. 3: Clay sculpture of a male head wearing a kyrbasia. (DAI Eurasien-Abteilung, G. Lindstr6m ©)
Fig. 4: Ivory akinakes scabbard. (Litvinskij and Picikjan 1980, fig. 2)
Fig. 4: Ivory akinakes scabbard. (Litvinskij and Picikjan 1980, fig. 2)
Fig. 6: Offering of Atrosokes. (DAI Eurasien-Abteilung, G. Lindstrém ©) Fig. 5: Ivory makhaira scabbard. (DAI Eurasien-Abteilung, G. Lindstrém ©)
Fig. 6: Offering of Atrosokes. (DAI Eurasien-Abteilung, G. Lindstrém ©) Fig. 5: Ivory makhaira scabbard. (DAI Eurasien-Abteilung, G. Lindstrém ©)

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