Антропологические материалы средневекового времени из могильника и поселения «Орлиное гнездо»
Anthropological Materials of the Medieval Period from the “Orlinoe Gnezdo” Burial Ground and Settlement

Summary/Abstract: This article reports the findings of an anthropological investigation undertaken at the settlement and burial ground known as “Orlinoe Gnezdo” (or “Eagle’s Nest”) situated in Krasny Yar District, Astrakhan Oblast. Ceramic analysis indicates the site dates to the 12th—14th centuries. The research involved an integrated examination of skeletal remains from 11 individuals. Initial analyses included sex and age determination alongside morphometric assessment of cranial features. Non-metric cranial traits were evaluated following A. A. Movsesyan’s methodology, while osteological analysis adhered to R. Martin’s methods. Osteometric measurements were interpreted according to criteria established by V. V. Bunak and A. G. Tikhonov. Pathological conditions were assessed using the standard protocol developed by A. P. Buzhilova, which was enhanced by radiographic analysis of selected bones. The study’s results indicate that the adult individuals interred at “Orlinoe Gnezdo” exhibit characteristics of a mixed Mongoloid-Caucasoid morphological complex. Evidence of inadvertent artificial cranial deformation of the Beshik type supports attribution of this group to the medieval population of the Golden Horde. Isotopic and morphological evidence suggests that the diet of those buried at the necropolis was likely mixed, a pattern consistent with urban populations in the Lower Volga region during this period. The diet of the individuals buried in the necropolis was most likely mixed, which is generally characteristic of the urban population of the Lower Volga region in the 12th—14th centuries. It is possible that riverine exploitation played a significant role for the settlement of “Orlinoye Gnezdo,” an activity primarily undertaken by men. Cases of enamel hypoplasia in adult individuals, porosis, and porotic lesions of the cranial vault and facial skeleton indicate that dietary stress and periods of prolonged famine were characteristic of the studied segment of the population.

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