Markus Mode Libros

Die Wandgemälde aus dem Saal eines sogdischen Palastes in Alt-Samarqand (Afrasiab; in Uzbekistan) gehören zu den qualitativ hochrangigsten und flächenmäßig umfangreichsten Kunstwerken des vorislamischen Mittelasiens. In der vorliegenden Studie wird ein neuer Ansatz zur Interpretation und chronologischen Fixierung dieser Malereien unterbreitet. Dabei gelangt der Verfasser zu einem Datum um das Jahr 648 n. Chr. Die dargestellten Geschehnisse und Personen auf den vier nach den Himmelsrichtungen orientierten Saalwänden entsprechen Landschaften und Völkern, die eben jenen Richtungen zuweisbar sind. In diesem «Abbild der Welt» aus sogdischer Sicht figurieren neben den Sogdern selbst auch Perser (Sasaniden), Alttürken, Chinesen (einschließlich des Tang-Kaisers Tai Zong) und Koreaner.

This volume presents contemporary research in archaeology, art history, and history, focusing on military equipment influenced by nomadic peoples in Eurasia. The studies span a long timeline, from the Iron Age to the Middle Ages, and cover a vast territory, including Central Europe and China. Nomadic successes in warfare can be attributed to their equipment, weaponry systems, armor, and accessories. These aspects are crucial for archaeologists who analyze and reconstruct forms, establish typological sequences, and compare the strengths and weaknesses of arms and armor. This research enriches the written history of military campaigns and the reasons behind victories or defeats. However, this field should not be narrowly defined as "military archaeology." Instead, arms and armor must be understood within their archaeological context, as components of complex societal remains. This perspective reveals insights into the broader lives of nomadic peoples, including their technological advancements, artistic expressions, and spiritual beliefs. Additionally, arms and armor serve as valuable archaeological and art-historical sources, indicating the exchange of knowledge, technology, and experiences among diverse cultures. The articles in this volume align with the framework of the Collaborative Research Centre "Difference and Integration."