IMAGES OF THE CHARIOT DRIVERS, HORSEMEN AND HORSES IN THE CULT FIGURES AND THE GRAPHIC ARTS OF THE CAUCASUS OF LATE II – EARLY I MILLENNIUM BC SOURCES AND HISTORIOGRAPHY

Abstract

The article analyzes the sources and the studies of the objects of the cult figures, as well the bronze ornamental belts found in the South Caucasus, in relation to the images of horses, chariots and riders. The article provides analysis the conditions of appearing and development of this fine tradition, the dating of the items, and analyzes artistic methods and forms of the engraved draw-
ings, the elements of weapons. The author offers interpretation of a number of characters based on the analysis of materials of the funeral and household sites, and also the bronze belts found in complexes and found by accident. Special attention is paid to the findings from the Tli burial ground. With reference to the analysis of the materials, the author interprets the sources and the critically evaluates conclusions of other researchers involved in the study of this problem. Results of the work are issued by a number of observations, generalizations and conclusions.