ABSTRACT

The Oxus Civilization (ca. 2200–1700 BC), or Bactria-Margiana Archaeological Complex (BMAC), is a relatively recent discovery, famous for its beautiful art masterpieces and seals, most of which come from tombs. Some are real imports (Indus, Iran, Mesopotamia) but most are reinterpretations of foreign pantheons or artifacts. Different interpretations have been advanced to explain the extraordinary network of relations brought to light (trade, migrations, local development). They are presented here together with the main features of this culture that bloomed and faded away rather quickly, did not have a writing system, and left us with many unanswered questions.