Simvolika kopii, bunchukov i znamion v traditsionnoi kul’ture kyrgyzov (Tian’-Shania i Alaia)

Abstract

The article discusses the symbolism of spears, boncuks, and banners in the traditional culture of Tian Shan and Alai Kyrgyz, and particularly in funeral and burial rites. The authors examine an array of ethnographic and folklore sources throwing light on the ways in which the Kyrgyz used pointed weapons in the late mediaeval and early modern periods. They further focus on the representation of spears, boncuks, and banners as symbols of military culture and power privileges in societies of ancient and mediaeval nomads of Central Asia.