amulets_banner.jpg

Bronze Bird, North Ossetia

1985.52.220

Transferred from the Wellcome Institute in 1985; 1985.52.220
 
In 1879 and 1881 the French archaeologist and anthropologist Ernest Chantre (1843–1924) conducted archaeological excavations at a Koban cemetery in North Ossetia, in the Caucasus. The excavations unearthed hundreds of Bronze Age objects that had been made by metalsmiths during the first millennium BC, including this bird-like figurine. It has an animal’s head with pricked ears or horns, a long neck, and a bird’s body and tail, with a hole through the centre for suspension.
 
Animal figurines were popular in Koban culture. They were connected with local mythology and religion, and were used as protective amulets and funerary objects. Birds were especially favoured, but figurines resembling deer, sheep, goats, bulls, cows, horses, and dogs have also been found. It is thought that the Koban people believed in divine animal spirits, and that they wore these little animals to help them possess animal qualities, such as agility, strength, speed, and intelligence.
 

Artisans of Memory

Behind the scenes of an amulets project

This series of short films follows the progress and practices of those connected with the Small Blessings project as they unravel the stories surrounding these curious objects.

The full series of films may be viewed here.

 

Amulets Competition

The competition is now closed and a winner has been announced. Find out more here.

Designated Outstanding Collection LogoArts Council England LogoprmvcEmail us: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Copyright 2012 The Pitt Rivers Museum, University of Oxford