Home > Arts > Artists > B > Bronze Age Bronze Age
Shaft-hole axe head with bird-headed demon, boar and dragon, c
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Shaft-hole axe head with bird-headed demon, boar and dragon, c
3931604 Shaft-hole axe head with bird-headed demon, boar and dragon, c. late 3rd-early 2nd millennium B.C. (alabaster)
by Bronze Age (2500-800 BC); 9x9.4 cm; Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA; (add.info.: Oxus civilisation from ancient Bactria and Margiana along the Oxus and Murghab rivers in modern Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Afghanistan.
Steatite or chlorite, alabaster); out of copyright
Media ID 22757940
© Bridgeman Images
Afghanistan Archaelogy Archaeological Iran Limestone Oxus Persia Hindu Kush
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> B
> Bronze Age Bronze Age
> Arts
> Contemporary art
> Modern art
> Sculpture
> Arts
> Contemporary art
> Sculpture
> Modern art
> Arts
> Landscape paintings
> Waterfall and river artworks
> River artworks
> Asia
> Afghanistan
> Related Images
> Asia
> Iran
> Related Images
> Asia
> Tajikistan
> Related Images
> Asia
> Uzbekistan
> Related Images
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Age Bronze
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Greek
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable artifact from the Bronze Age, specifically an intricately carved shaft-hole axe head. Dating back to the late 3rd-early 2nd millennium B. C. , this alabaster masterpiece measures 9x9.4 cm and is currently housed in the prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, USA. The axe head features a mesmerizing composition that tells a story of ancient civilizations. At its center stands a bird-headed demon, exuding both power and mystery. Flanking this enigmatic figure are depictions of a boar and dragon, symbolizing strength and wisdom respectively. Originating from the Oxus civilization, which thrived along the Oxus and Murghab rivers in present-day Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan, this artifact offers valuable insights into their culture. Crafted from steatite or chlorite alabaster with meticulous attention to detail, it exemplifies the exceptional craftsmanship of its time. As we delve deeper into this image's narrative, we uncover connections to Persia (modern-day Iran), Hindu Kush mountains, Bactria Margiana region (ancient territories encompassing parts of Turkmenistan), as well as other Asian influences. This sculpture represents not only an archaeological treasure but also serves as a testament to the rich history shared by these regions. Through Bridgeman Images' lens capturing every intricate detail of this extraordinary piece of artistry, we can appreciate how it transcends time and space—bridging ancient civilizations with our modern understanding of human creativity.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
