Horse's hoof motif in the art of ancient nomads (genesis and symbolism)

The horse's hoof motif, prevalent in the art of ancient nomads, served as both a pictogram and a symbol of social or ethnic identity. This study reveals that the motif originated in the Mongolian Altai during the late Bronze Age, spreading across Asia before disappearing by the 3rd century BC. The hoof was depicted schematically on petroglyphs and items like ladles, cheek-pieces, and buckles, with regional variations in its use. The earliest representations were found in Altai, suggesting a significant role for Asian territories in its development. By the second half of the 7th century BC, the motif had spread to the Middle East, transforming into an additional detail in animal figures. The research identifies specific cultural and stylistic areas where the hoof motif was prominent, including Sayano-Altai, Dnieper-Kuban-Caucasus-Iran, South Ural (a buffer zone), Khakass-Minusinsk Hollow, and Kazakhstan. The study suggests that the motif may have been associated with royal Scythians, a nomadic group influential in the formation of archaic Scythian culture.

Kisel, V. (2021). Horse’s hoof motif in the art of ancient nomads (genesis and symbolism). Camera Praehistorica, 82–105. https://doi.org/10.31250/2658-3828-2021-2-82-105