In the history of the ancient world, Bactria is somewhat of an anomaly: a Greek kingdom located in modern Afghanistan. When Alexander the Greatconqueredthe Persian Empire, he acquired all its outlying provinces including Bactria. Greek forces then established and maintained control in Bactria. After Alexander’s death, his kingdom wasdividedamong his generals and Bactria became part of the eastern section, ruled by the Seleucid Dynasty. There was extensive immigration of Greeks whofoundseveralcitiesbasedonthe Greek model complete with gymnasiums and amphitheatres. Later, the Greco-Bactria Kingdom asserted its independence and quickly expanded its holdings to the upper reaches ofthe Indus River Valley. The Greek Kingdom in Bactria lasted for another two centuries, until it was finally overwhelmed by nomadic tribesmeninvadingrromthecentral Asiansteppes.
Bactrian Hammered Silver Bowl - PF.5880Origin: Afghanistan Circa: 400 BC to 100 BCDimensions: 4.25" (10.8cm) high x 10.125" (25.7cm) wide Collection: Near Easternstyle: Bactrian Medium: Silver

Antiquities
Ancient Near East