Anthropomorphic Face Masks of the Early Iron Age from the North-East of Europe
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24852/2587-6112.2026.3.161.170Keywords:
archaeology, North-East of Europe, Early Iron Age, face masks, anthropomorphic masksAbstract
This article presents an analysis of anthropomorphic face masks discovered during excavations of settlements and cult sites (sanctuaries) in the Pechora and Vychegda river basins. The artifacts are systematized by the degree of details of the face and decorative motifs and classified into simple and complex types with variations. The studied material includes both specially cast products-images and other functionally significant items (mirrors, pendants, etc.). For the first time in this region, a comprehensive comparative analysis of all anthropomorphic masks from the Early Iron Age has been conducted, which makes it possible to identify internal and trans-regional connections. The results of fullfiled study can serve as a basis for further research and the reconstruction of the religious beliefs of the ancient populations of the Far North-East of Europe.
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