Kustova J.G.  

Traditional children's amulets in the culture of the peoples of Sayano-Altai

The content of the report is based on the results of the author's own scientific research and archival materials of Vera Pavlovna Dyakonova, handed over by her son to the author of the report.

The research touches on the layer of worldview and ritual practices of the indigenous peoples of the Sayano-Altai, related to the protection of the life and health of children. Extensive ethnographic material makes it possible to reconstruct the most ancient religious practices, traces of which are found in archaeological excavations. This is especially true of sets of astragalus discovered by archaeologists in the burials of children and adolescents, items made from the bones of wild animals and livestock. The use of similar amulets for children on the territory of the Sayano-Altai is closely connected with life support systems, as well as with trade and other relations of the peoples living here.