The Iranian plateau is dominated by large stretches of inhospitable desert but various societies emerged at its mountainous edges during the Early Bronze Age. In the south-west, the site of Susa acted as a gateway from the lowlands of Mesopotamia to the rich metal, stone, and wood resources of Iran. During 3000-2500 BC the Proto-Elamite culture developed in the region of Susa. These people produced sculpture and seals which depicted wild animals or demonic figures in humanlike postures. Clay tablets inscribed with the Proto-Elamite writing system have been found at numerous sites across Iran. Although it is derived from Mesopotamian cuneiform, the Proto-Elamite script remains largely undeciphered.

From around 2500 BC, vessels carved from chlorite or steatite and decorated in a so-called 'Intercultural Style' were produced in south-east Iran, especially at the site of Tepe Yahya, and widely exported. Close cultural links were also established with settlements further north in Afghanistan and south-west Central Asia. This Bactrian-Margiana Archaeological Complex (BMAC) is also known as the Oxus civilisation.