Ceramic “Necklace”: A Neolithic Ritual Artifact from the Lower Amur

Abstract

This article continues a series of publications presenting the results of excavations, at sites exceptionally rich in archaeological finds associated with several Neolithic cultures, at Suchu !sland in the Lower Amur region. We descriЬe rare ritual sculptures, mostly bird-like and animal-like, from a sanctuary in a dwelling associated with the Malyshevo culture (late 5th to early 4th millennia ВC). The most important of them is a "necklace" found in a small pit. We propose a reconstruction of the artifact. !t included 17 tiny items-eight vessels, five figurines of Ьirds (auks), and four douЬle- ended phalli, each with a seal head at one end. All the items are pierced, suggesting that they were strung together. Such a "necklace" may have Ьelonged to a shaman or sorcerer, who was in charge of the sanctuary. This suggestion is upheld Ьy other ritual or ceremonial artifacts found in the same dwelling-stone laЬrets, which, as the ethnographic data suggest, could be fastened to decorative masks, and a ceremonial jug evidently destined for stimulating or intoxicating drinks. An important ritual role was likely played Ьy a female figurine, found near the "necklace" and possiЬly depicting a progenitress, bringing wealth.