The article is
devoted to the analysis of archaeological materials testifying to the
contacts of the nomads of Sarmatia and Parthia and their comparison with
the data of written sources. The analysis has shown that the items, which
more or less likely can be attributed as Parthian, fell to the nomads of
Sarmatia throughout all the history of Parthia. The motifs of Parthian
art found reflection in objects made outside Parthia, probably in a nomadic
environment. For different periods characteristic is the inflow of certain
categories of objects and their localization. Separate finds and find
complexes may be associated with events known to us from written sources, the
contacts of the nomads with Iran.
In general, the archaeological evidence of contacts in question does not
allow us to speak of the penetration of Parthian products as a result of
regular trading contacts, but rather as evidence of gifts, tributes, service
fees, or booty. In some cases we can assume also the movement of objects as
personal belongings, together with the original owners as a result of theft
captive or marriage contacts.
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Key
words: Parthia, Sarmatia, contacts, written sources, archaeological
data, silver
and gold vessels, phalerae, jewelry, glazed pottery, arms, belt sets.
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