Archers on the Petroglyphs of Kara-Too in Kyrgyzstan

Abstract

Purpose. The article analyzes in details two small petroglyphic compositions with human figures and hoofed animals made in the technique of dotted engraving on rocky ridges, which were discovered in the mountains of Kara-Too, a part of the mountain range of Tian Shan in Kyrgyzstan, and provides a brief description of another similar composition. Results. We summarized the primary events of researching rock graphic arts compositions in mountains, particularly those located in the northern part of the Kyrgyz Republic. The first imagery group, which was discovered at the site Kara-Too, demonstrates a dismounted archer wearing a rounded head-dress and keeping a bow and arrow in his hand, with a bow quiver hung to his belt, and a profile imagery of a hoofed animal with two protuberances on its back, which probably means that the animal is a camel. The second petroglyphic composition shows two archers with bows and arrows in their hands, who are hunting goats. We also give a brief description of the third multi-figure composition present at this petroglyphic location. It includes an imagery of a horseman, some horses, a dog, mountain goats and sheep or Altai argali, as well as a construction with walls and a double-pitch roof. Conclusion. The images of humans and animals in the petroglyphic composition of Kara-Too, which were described in the article, apparently relate to the Late Bronze Age and Early Iron Age.