The image of antelope (saiga) in the Early Iron Age Art of Kazakhstan
The image of antelope (saiga) in the Early Iron Age Art of Kazakhstan

Summary/Abstract: The aim of the study was to analyze images of antelope, specifically Saiga tatarica, among Early Iron Age artworks in Kazakhstan. The research is based on archaeological record from the so-called ‘Zhalauly hoard’, as well as from Taldy-2, Tasmola-5, Baike-2, Tagisken, and Issyk barrows to mention but a few. Antelope-shaped motifs appear on artifacts such as headdress, belt, bone case, weapons, and horse harness. It is Saryarka, the most spacious region of Kazakhstan, which provides the biggest sample of antelope representations. The widespread occurrence of saiga images lasted from the 8th to 5th century BCE, with some cases, like Issyk and Tasaryk, dating back to the 4th century BCE.

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