East and West: A Central Asian Silver Hoard from the Parthian Era – François Baratte

EAST AND WEST: A CENTRAL ASIAN SILVER HOARD FROM THE PARTHIAN ERA

Author:  François Baratte
translated by Romany Sadik

This exceptional find comprises a treasure of over forty-five silver objects which were discovered in Central Asia. They apparently came from a unique collection, as indicated by the markings on some of the objects and a number of the pieces also have karoshti inscriptions.

Some of the objects are plain and characteristic of Parthian silver. However an important group have elaborate decoration. Whilst one of the cups is certainly Roman, other items raise problems as to their origins. Many objects without doubt come from Roman ateliers or from workshops influenced by Roman craftsmanship and styles.

Professor Baratte in a magisterial art-historical analysis discusses each of the items in detail. He describes their relationship to other known examples and their origin and the significance of any inscriptions.

This is a beautiful and important collection which illustrates the fusion of Central Asian cultures with the work of Western silversmiths and the emulators in those areas.

In an appendix Professor Harry Falk discusses the names and weights inscribed on some of the objects.

Language: English
ISBN 1901764168
2002, paperback, 62 pages, 30 black and white plates, 10.5” x 8.0”