Nomads of Eurasia

Published to accompany a touring exhibition of archeological and ethnographic materials, these 12 essays provide an articulate introduction to nomadic and semi-nomadic peoples of the Eurasian steppes--the territories from the northern shores of the Black Sea to Mongolia and northern China. From approximately the first millennium B.C. until the early part of this century, the Scythians and Sakians, Huns, Turks, Mongols and Tatars wandered over huge areas; their economy was based on animal husbandry, which determined their itinerant habits and their homes (the collapsible yurt ); household tools and objects were by necessity portable and durable. The nomads invented the saddle, stirrup and saber, and may have originated bowed stringed instruments. Chapters on jewelry, rug-making, clothing, weaponry and religious beliefs and practices round out this strikingly illustrated book. Basilov is the author of several works on the religious practices of Central Asian peoples. (May)