The Turgen-II complex in Jetisu: history of objects

The assemblage of artifacts from the settlement and burials at the archaeological site of Turgen-II, located in the upper reaches of the eponymous gorge, includes both decorative and utility items made from iron, bone, and stone. The Early Saka period (8th–6th centuries BC) is represented by a bone comb, a bronze mirror plaque, and a bell. Artifacts from the Late Saka period (5th–3rd centuries BC) are generally utilitarian and made of iron. The funerary inventory from the Wusun period (3rd–1st centuries BC) includes stone, bone, and bronze ornaments as well as tools. A number of finds – including an arrowhead, an iron buckle, bronze bridle plaque, a bronze strap-fitting, and stirrups – are typologically attributed to the medieval period (no earlier than the 9th–14th centuries AD) and appear to have entered the archaeological context secondarily. The comparison of the core assemblage with radiocarbon data and technological features allows for tracing changes in the structure of the site throughout its different phases of use. Decorative elements on select artifacts reflect regional artistic traditions and provide evidence of cultural contacts with other regions of Central Asia.