XIONGNU BRONZE ART OBJECTS FOUND IN THEIR HISTORICAL CONTEXT

Abstract

The paper considers some bronze art objects, basically – openwork belt plates, one of the brightest components of Xiongnu cultural complex (2nd century BC – 1st century AD). The main aim is to trace the distribution of these objects in various regions where they were found, in the context of historical events associated with formation of the Xiongnu state. According to the published materials the author gives a brief review of such findings in each region, such as Ordos, Mongolia, Transbaikalia, Tuva, Altai, Minusinsk basin, etc., as well as reveals their specific features. The analysis conducted allows the following conclusion: the owners of such “ceremonial” belts decorated with bronze plates of the considered type occupied a certain socially oriented position as “conductors” of Xiongnu culture in local societies, and these bronze art objects themselves may be considered as sort of markers, generally outlining Northern boundaries of the Xiongnu state.

Keywords

• xiongnu
• bronze art objects
• openwork belt plaques