ROE DEER ANTLER AS A RAW MATERIAL IN THE HUNNO-SARMATIAN PERIOD IN THE NORTHERN ALTAI

Abstract

Antler of Cervidae was an important part of the raw material base in traditional manufacturing in Northern Altai during the Hunno-Sarmatian period (the first half of the 1st millennium CE). Several seasonal migration routes of the roe deer cross this territory. The processing of roe deer antler during the Hunno-Sarmatian period is well documented at several archaeological sites in the inter-mountain valley of the lower Katun River. The assortment of antler products is composed inter alia of tools, composite bow elements, arrowheads and horse harnesses. The natural occurrence and high quantity of the specific antler material affects differences in the technology of manufacture. Generally, the assortment of antler items of the Hunno-Sarmatian period from the Northern Altai is typical of the broader region of Southern Siberia, Central Asia and the forest steppes of Eastern Europe.