Kalmyk bone divination scapulas, artwork
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Kalmyk bone divination scapulas, artwork
Kalmyk bone divination scapulas. Artwork of scapulas (shoulder blades) used by the Kalmyk people of Central Asia for divination purposes. The bones were heated and the resulting cracks used to foretell the future. This practice, known as scapulimancy, was carried out over a wide geographical area, particularly in Asia and over a long period of time. In China, divination rituals using tortoise carapaces and scapulae date back to the Shang and early Chou periods, as far back as the second millennium BC
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Media ID 6312109
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Anthropological Anthropology Bones Central Asia China Divination Mammal Mammalian Pre Historic Pre History Predictions Prophecy Scapula Shoulder Blade Shoulder Blades Kalmyk Predict
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the ancient practice of scapulimancy, as depicted in the artwork of Kalmyk bone divination scapulas. Used by the Kalmyk people of Central Asia for centuries, these shoulder blades were heated and their resulting cracks were believed to hold prophetic messages about the future. Scapulimancy, a form of divination that was prevalent across Asia, has a rich historical significance dating back to China's Shang and early Chou periods in the second millennium BC. In those times, tortoise carapaces and scapulae were used in elaborate rituals to seek insights into destiny. The intricate illustration captures not only the cultural heritage but also sheds light on anthropological aspects related to this ancient tradition. The false-colored engraving highlights every detail of these mammalian bones with Chinese inscriptions, providing a glimpse into how predictions were made using this unique divination equipment. As we admire this prehistoric artifact from Central Asia, it serves as a reminder of humanity's enduring fascination with foretelling the future. This artwork offers us an opportunity to delve into history and anthropology while appreciating its artistic value. It is through such relics that we gain insight into our ancestors' beliefs and practices, connecting us to our shared pasts across time and continents.
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