Metalcrafts of central Asia

"Across the vast distances of inner Asia, from Mancuria to the Caspian Sea, the nomadic peoples, Scythians, Huns, Turkmen and Mongols among others, have played a major role in the transmission of arts and crafts along the Silk Road and other major trade routes. Although often in conflict with their settled neighbours, the nomads depended on them for, jewellery and agricultural products. The nomadic Animal Style and world religions such as Buddhism and Islam influenced the development of central Asian crafts, as did the tides of conquest. This book describes the manufacturing techniques, styles and symbolism of the metalcrafts of central Asia in their historical and contemporary settings."