On the Necessity of Modern Documentation of "Deer" Stones Discovered in Xinjiang
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24852/2587-6112.2026.3.20.33Keywords:
archaeology, Xinjiang, , photogrammetry, 3D rendering, digital drawing, digital technologies, cultural-chronological identificationAbstract
Xinjiang is a major historical and cultural region in western Inner Asia. Its geographical location underscores the region's significant role in the long-term relationships between nomadic peoples and settled populations in ancient times. To date, more than 140 "deer" stones are identified in Xinjiang, introduced into scientific discourse in various forms. They mark the western and southwestern limits of the distribution of such specific sculptures. Effective study requires modern documentation using digital technologies. This paper presents the experience of such research using "deer" stones located in the Bulgan River basin in Western Mongolia, near the Chinese border. It provides illustrations and descriptions of four ancient megaliths discovered at different times during planned field expeditions. They showcase the artistic traditions of ancient Inner Asian nomads and specific material culture items, enabling necessary reconstructions.
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