Heavy Bactrian Bronze Engraved Bracelet Circa 1st millennium BC An exceptional heavy bronze penannular bracelet with a substantial rounded body, slightly flattened along the inner face and terminating in enlarged, faceted ends. The exterior is decorated with engraved geometric ornament, including a central rectangular panel enclosing an interlaced pattern, bordered by pairs of incised transverse lines. Further bands of closely spaced diagonal hatching and geometric motifs adorn the terminals. Bactria was an ancient region of Central Asia, situated between the Hindu Kush mountains and the Amu Darya River, principally in present-day northern Afghanistan and parts of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Its fertile river valleys supported prosperous agricultural communities, and its position on routes connecting Iran, India and the Central Asian steppes made it an important centre of trade and cultural exchange. During the Bronze Age, Bactria and neighbouring Margiana developed a sophisticated civilisation, recognised for its elaborate metalwork, carved stone vessels, seals and distinctive jewellery. The region subsequently became part of the Achaemenid Persian Empire, was conquered by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC and later formed the heart of the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom. Size: 6.5cm x 5.5cm x 1cm Provenance: Private European Collection; formerly acquired from old UK and European collection formed since the 1970s. COMBINED SHIPPING We offer combined shipping only for items purchased in the same auction. You need to pay for these together; otherwise, the system will not combine shipping. We don't combine and refund shipping afterwards. SHIPPING WITHIN THE EU ONLY! We ship exclusively to addresses within the European Union. Please ensure that you can provide an EU delivery address before bidding.