Customs, rites, and sacrifices relating to a mortuary complex in Late Bronze Age Mongolia (Tsatsyn Ereg, Arkhangai)

Analysis of deer stone and khirigsuur complexes in Late Bronze Age Mongolia reveals complex ritual practices centered around horse sacrifices and caprine bone deposits. The study, conducted at Tsatsyn Ereg, found that peripheral mounds contained the remains of elderly male horses, suggesting a more nuanced mortuary ritual than simple in situ sacrifice. Circles of stones surrounding fireplaces were linked to purification rituals, with disproportionate representation of caprine teeth and feet indicating selective processing. The alignment of structures and horse orientations implied a symbolic connection to the rising sun, highlighting the communal and religious significance of these monuments.

Lepetz, S., Zazzo, A., Bernard, V., de Larminat, S., Magail, J., & Gantulga, J.-O. (2019). Customs, rites, and sacrifices relating to a mortuary complex in Late Bronze Age Mongolia (Tsatsyn Ereg, Arkhangai). Anthropozoologica, 54(1), 151. https://doi.org/10.5252/anthropozoologica2019v54a15