Deer Stones’ Study in Xinjiang by Chinese Researchers

Xinjiang is one of the regions in Inner Asia where "Deer" stones have been found. Chinese researchers have been studying them since the 1960s. In 1995, according to Wang Bo's article, there were more than 50 "Deer" stones in Xinjiang. From 2007 to 2011, China conducted its third census of cultural relics. According to the data obtained, nearly 100 "Deer" stones were recorded in Xinjiang. In 2010, there were 36 such statues in the eastern part of the region (Qinhe and Fuyun counties). Since then, the researches have been carried out in various parts of Xinjiang. During the fieldwork, it was possible to discover a series of "Deer" stones that had not been accounted for in the census. Some ancient sculptures were found in separately excavated burials. To date, there are about 140 "Deer" stones in Xinjiang. To study them in detail, it is necessary to introduce and understand the research history, which is important for further analyses and solving many problems. By obtaining information on the distribution and characteristics of known "Deer" stones, it will be possible to use modern methods to document such monuments left by ancient nomads.