Abstract
The Author, who is Professor of archaeology and a specialist of rock art in Central Asia examines the various theories about the origin of the scytho-siberian animal style. Prof. Sher refutes the theory of Middle Eastern origin, principally based on the discovery of the so-called « Ziwiye hoard ». Furthermore, the scientific excavation of the kurgan Arzhan (Tuva) offers strong evidence for an early datation (between 12th and 9th centuries B.C.) for the representations of the first period of this animal style, contemporary to the Karasuk culture (Late Bronze, Early Iron Age). These representations, on rock, as well as on stelae (the « deer stelae ») and artefacts, are rooted in the Early Bronze Age representations of the Okunevo and Afanasevo cultures in the Minusinsk basin and neighbouring areas. Prof. Sher traces some stylistic elements and their evolution from South Siberia towards Central Asia and further West, where they meet Middle Eastern influences.
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