Ancient swan figurine uncovered in Siberia, symbol of life 2300 years ago

In the Altai Mountains of Siberia, Russia, archaeologists discovered a unique plush figurine, approximately 2,400 years old, in a burial mound within the Pazyryk Valley. This ornamental swan, crafted from reindeer felt and wool, measures nearly 12 inches tall and was unearthed by Soviet archaeologists during their 1920s expeditions, with the swan itself found in 1949. The Pazyryk culture, which is associated with the Saka cultural group, was comprised of nomadic peoples connected to Scythian traditions. The swan is constructed from various types of felt, including white for the body and black for the beak, eyes, and wing tips, demonstrating intricate craftsmanship. Notably, it resembled other ornamental items found alongside it, indicating a shared cultural significance. The figurine features wooden supports within its feet, suggesting it may have been displayed on a wooden chariot or a structure over the burial site, both of which have since deteriorated. The symbolism of the swan stretches beyond mere decoration; it is thought to represent life in multiple realms—air, land, and water. Furthermore, the creature might connect to ancient creation myths prevalent among various cultures, encapsulating the belief in the universe's formation through symbols of water birds like swans, ducks, or geese. Current preservation methods benefit from the region's cold climate, which has allowed archaeologists to find numerous organic artifacts intact, including human remains and other culturally significant objects, thus providing valuable insights into the Pazyryk society and their beliefs.