THE SPREAD OF THE HARP AND LUTE IN ANCIENT KHOREZM AND CENTRAL ASIA: ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOURCES AND CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

This article examines the distribution of stringed musical instruments, particularly the harp and lute, in ancient Khorezm and Central Asia, focusing on their historical development and role in interregional cultural relations. The study analyses archaeological evidence, including musician figurines, clay sculptures, and pottery fragments discovered at Koy-Krylgan-kala, Toprak-kala, Kaparas, and Kunya-Uaz. Comparative attention is also given to musical representations and related artefacts from archaeological sites such as Ayrtam, Dalverzin-tepe, Kampyrtepa, Kesh, and Khalchayan. The article further explores the distribution of the triangular harp in ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Iran, and Central Asia in the light of historical accounts and archaeological representations. Written sources and archaeological evidence are used to examine the role of musical instruments in cultural exchange and the spiritual life of ancient societies. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of the development of musical culture in Khorezm and neighbouring regions, as well as the cultural interactions among the peoples of the ancient Near East and Central Asia.