Art in the first cities of Iran and Central Asia : the Sarikhani Collection

A beautifully illustrated book exploring the art of Iran and Central Asia from the 5th to the 2nd Millennium BC This richly illustrated book explores the art of ancient Iran and Central Asia between the 5th and 2nd millenniums BC, a time that proved to be one of the region’s most prolific periods. Over this period, the first cities arise, strengthen their power and multiply, and undergo continuous innovation. To serve this new world, items are invented and artistry flourishes—jars for storage and transportation of goods, prestigious weapons, jewellery, ceremonial vessels and statuary. Exquisite photography and illustrations throughout the book demonstrate the skilful design and wealth of materials used to create such objects. Ancient Iran was rich in minerals, while Central Asia had precious commodities such as lapis lazuli, gold and tin. Showcasing the distinctive artistic output of the region, magnificent objects from the Sarikhani Collection and other collections come together in this illuminating book. Distributed for the Sarikhani Collection "This richly illustrated book explores the art of ancient Iran and Central Asia between the 5th and 2nd millenniums BC, a time that proved to be one of the region's most prolific periods. Over this period, the first cities arise, strengthen their power and multiply, and undergo continuous innovation. To serve this new world, items are invented and artistry flourishes--jars for storage and transportation of goods, prestigious weapons, jewellery, ceremonial vessels and statuary. Exquisite photography and illustrations throughout the book demonstrate the skilful design and wealth of materials used to create such objects. Ancient Iran was rich in minerals, while Central Asia had precious commodities such as lapis lazuli, gold and tin. Showcasing the distinctive artistic output of the region, magnificent objects from the Sarikhani Collection and other collections come together in this illuminating book."--Publisher description Cover Contents Acknowledgements Foreword Introduction The genesis of this catalogue Documenting a private collection of archaeological objects Some milestones in the discovery of ancient Iran 1. The geography and archaeological history of ancient Iran and its connections to Central Asia The geography of Iran Ancient Iran between the 5th and the beginning of the 2nd millennium BC 2. Iranian painted pottery in the 5th millennium BC 3. Objects from Iran, 3rd to early 2nd millennium BC Painted pottery in the 3rd millennium Jewellery and adornment Insignia of dignity Incense-burners 4. Objects from Central Asia, last third of the 3rd to early 2nd millennium BC Ceremonial vessels ʻBactriana Princesses’ and ʻBalafrés’ Compartmented seals Insignia of dignity Using gold leaf Notes Select bibliography Index