Features of Ceramics of the Kulai Culture (Surgut Variant) of the Barsov gorodok I/32 Site (Surgut-Ob Region)

Abstract

Purpose. Barsova Gora is a unique archaeological and landscape site located in the Tyumen Region of the Russian Federation. The archaeological site Barsov gorodok I/32 is located on the edge of the bank of Utoplaya river. A visual comparison of the ceramics of the early Iron Age from the Barsov gorodok I/31-32 sites and the ceramics of the Barsov gorodok I/4 site from the east showed their great similarity, if not their identical nature. For a correct comparison and identification of similarities and differences in the ceramics of these sites, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive study of the products of each settlement using a unified technique. The study is devoted to the analysis of ceramics of the Barsov gorodok I/32 site. Results. The most common motifs are rows of ‘ducks’. Other common patterns are: short wavy horizontal and vertical prints (‘birds’ and ‘snakes’), rows of stamp prints, notches and ‘pearls’. There are no non-ornamented dividing zones on the vessels. There are no ornaments in the form of a series of hemotheric figures and meanders. The upper edges of the vessels are flat (28 %) or beveled inward (72%). In 33% of cases, a cornice is present. The ceramics are made from low-sand ferruginous clays with a natural admixture of sand, mica, brown iron ore, and scraps of vegetation. Artificial impurities are represented by chamotte, broken stone and organic matter. Four recipes of clay paste have been revealed: clay + broken stone; clay + broken stone + chamotte; clay + chamotte; clay + chamotte + organic matter. The ceramics are made with ribbons. The shape of the vessels is cauldron-like. Conclusion. The absence of non-ornamented dividing zones, the presence of rows of short wavy horizontal and vertical impressions (‘birds’ and ‘snakes’), the presence of inwardly beveled upper edges of the vessels with ornamented cornices testify to the late existence of this pottery. The ceramics of the Barsov gorodok I/32 site can be attributed to the late stage of the Kulai culture (Surgut variant).