Exploring ‘Sign Behavior’ Among the Ancient Population of the Kazakh Altai (a Study of Zigzag Abstractions in Burial Structures and Petroglyphs)

This paper is dedicated to a detailed analysis of the archaeological site of Shozhe No. 5, focusing on its symbolic system, including zigzag patterns on the walls of burial structures. The study emphasizes the importance of an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating archaeological, geophysical, laboratory, and iconographic methods, which allowed for a comprehensive examination of the site. Special attention is given to the cultural continuity and the association of zigzag symbols with the water element and cosmogonic beliefs, which played a crucial role in the funerary practices of ancient communities in the Kazakh Altai. The paper also explores potential analogies between these symbols and similar signs in other regions of Eurasia, opening new avenues for the study of cultural connections. The conclusions of the research underscore the need for further study of the site to gain a deeper understanding of its symbolic signi昀椀cance and historical role. This study makes a signi昀椀cant contribution to the study of the signi昀椀cative behavior of ancient peoples, as well as to the interpretation of their cultural and mythological heritage.