Symbolism and Shamanistic Elements in European Hun Art

Abstract

The archaeological sites of the Huns (European Huns) include some of the most notable areas, such as the lands between the Ural Mountains and the Ob River. Additionally, significant finds have been discovered in the Saratov region, the central part of the North Caucasus, near the Caspian Sea, and in Dagestan. Traces of the European Huns are also observed in regions like Lower Dniester, the Crimean Peninsula and its surrounding steppes, the Kherson region, Eastern and Western Moldova, the Buzau Valley, and Dobruja. Excavations in these areas have revealed artifacts, including cauldrons used in shamanistic and funeral ceremonies, stylized bird-headed diadems found in Kerch, cicada-shaped fibulae symbolizing rebirth, sun ray-like serrated temple pendants, belt buckles adorned with animal figures, rings symbolizing cosmic diagrams and celestial elements, bracelets decorated with fantastic animal motifs, mirrors, as well as ceramic and metal vessels such as as bowls, and jugs. It should be noted that many elements reflected in the artworks of the European Huns possess characteristics related to symbolism and, consequently, especially to Shamanism. These artifacts, bearing traces of shamanistic beliefs and rituals, also reflect elements linked to Central Asian and Turkic-Islamic arts. Among the most commonly encountered symbols in the artworks of the European Huns period are gold; animals such as eagles, deer and other hoofed animals, cicadas, and dragons; as well as the world tree and the tree of life. Among the points that drew our attention is the presence of deer antler branches or deer depictions either in the form or the motifs of the temple pendants worn by women. This is significant in terms of interpreting woman as being symbolically connected to one of the sacred animals considered as animal ancestors-either the animal father or the animal mother. Additionally, certain elements such as bells and motifs on strap plaques found in some horse harness equipment contain details associated with Shamanism. In other words, the importance and symbolic value attributed to the horse in Turkish culture becomes evident once again here. For instance, the bells attached to the horse reins from Altinkazgan bear a strong resemblance to those found on shamanic costumes. In other words, the artworks of the European Huns, which we have addressed, share similarities in terms of symbolism and Shamanism not only with early period Central Asian art but also with those found in Eastern Europe and Turkish-Islamic art. Within this context, these works represent an important link in the chain that preserves the connection between Turkish symbolism, iconography and Shamanism. This study will evaluate the archaeological finds from the European Hun Period in terms of symbolism and Shamanism, while drawing parallels with examples from Central Asian and Turkic-Islamic arts. The cultural heritage of the European Huns will be examined more deeply through artistic and religious elements.