Early Scythian Spearheads with a Socket

Spears were the second most widespread (after bow and arrows) weapon of Scythian warriors. Now more than 1,000 iron spearheads shafts are known. Some spears 3 m or long, i.e. combat weapons. in Scythia, contrast to eastern nomads, Sauro-Sarmatians Saka, a popular weapon, among both ordinary warriors elite. spears, first all, their tips, have been studied well. However, some them features that need be explained. That is presence horizontal ridges around ends sockets spearheads, which not primarily intended for decoration. Few such tips found so far Ukrainian Forest-Steppe. They belong archaic period, precisely period from half 7th beginning 6th centuries BC. In author’s opinion, on spear had utilitarian purpose: they served securely fasten tassels, possibly shape horse tails, special badges prototypes future flags. A similar tradition arose nomads Central Asia as early middle-second 2nd millennium BC then it spread throughout Eurasian region during later periods. The with bunchuks wolf tails undoubtedly experienced evolution: at symbols tribal military unity, over time began play role prestigious social marker – an attribute leaders different levels. As rule, notable buried graves where found. Apparently, tassels indicate owners heads certain contingents. Given synchronism mentioned burials campaigns East, appearance Scythians due Assyrian influence cannot ruled out. any case, attested reliefs Assyria, although earlier time.