KULMINO TYPE OF CERAMICS

Abstract

The Kulmino type of ceramics was identifi ed in 1967 by V.D. Viktorova on the basis of materials from
Tumanskoe IV village on the Kulma river in the basin of the Tavda river. It has been encountered at other sites
as well, including the complexes with the Northern (Vagil) type of dishware corresponding to the Gamayun
culture. The distribution area of Culmino ceramics stretches across the northern portion of the Sverdlovsk
region and the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area, primarily in the basins of the Tavdy, Kondy and Lower Ob
rivers. It has been discovered at 11 settlements, 7 sites and approximately 80 habitations. The predominant type
of dishware is vessels of a pot or cauldron shape with a round bottom. The pattern covers the top third or half of
the vessels and is represented by stamping, including rolling stamps, and less frequently by incisions and thin
carved lines. Especially widespread are the comb (with small indentations), smooth and fi gured stamps in the
form of a snake, rhombus, etc., including cord imprints. Ornamental motifs are represented by horizontal belts
of stamp impressions, oblique columns made using the same technique, areas of interpenetrating triangles, and
a rhombic mesh. The transition between the neck and the shoulder features 1-2 rows of pits (round, triangular
or rhombic) with occasional pearls. Counterparts of such dishware can be found among the vessels of the
Gamayun, Itkul and Beloyarsk cultures. The Kulmino type of ceramics is dated 8th/7th-6th centuries B.C. Its
origin is associated by researchers with the dishes of the Lozhvino culture.