An Eastern Toreutics Item from Novosibirsk

Abstract

Purpose. The article dwells upon the description and interpretation of a unique anthropomorphic Eastern toreutics item that was discovered by accident on the territory of Novosibirsk. This item comes from the traditional Ob river crossing site where a cult place with references to the Early Iron Age has already been identified. The study is aimed at attributing the imported item in terms of historical and cultural as well as material science aspects and establishing its relative chronology and possible intended purpose. Results. The functional purpose of the artifact is considered in terms of both its initial origin and possible use in the local environment. The structure and origin of the clothes depicted on the toreutics item are analyzed as being one of the most insightful elements of the cultural background of the product. Based on these data, an assumption concerning an image of silk clothes on the figure was made. Special attention was given to characteristics of a dynamic nature evoked by a volumetric depiction of the tiny sculpture that is likely to correspond to a ritual dance. The established direct and indirect analogies for the toreutics item from Novosibirsk allow state its Eastern origin related to the consequences of the impact of the ancient culture on the vast Eurasian territories. The anthropomorphic product has obvious features of a Buddhistic background represented by an image of the point on the figure's forehead. The energy-dispersive analysis of the metal product allowed determine an alloy composition. It comprised of 62.1 % copper, 15.3 % tin, 15.2 % lead, and 7.4 % zinc. Conclusion. The share of tin in the alloy allows it to be identified as a ‘classic’ bronze piece. An extensive share of copper in the metal product brings it closer to the formula of ancient bronze. The item dates back to the turn of the epoch and is likely to be related to the Indian and Greek cultural tradition.