ON A NEW INTERPRETATION OF THE PLOT ON THE INCENSE BURNER FROM ERMENSAY

Abstract

Abstract. In 1993, a bronze incense burner was accidentally found in the Ermensay gorge while digging a cellar. In the center of which is depicted the attack of two wolves on a mountain goat, crows are watching on opposite sides, and there are round holes on the backs of wolves. The entire composition is oriented to the cardinal points. On the edge of the bowl there are 16 sculptural figures of leopards walking in a circle. The compositional plot is a widespread obligate form of symbiosis of two species (wolf and crow), in which the relationship between organisms is vital for both parties. That is, in this story, two wolves use two ravens as a food supplier, while the latter receive protection from enemies or favorable conditions. Two wolves and crows share the mountain goat's prey with each other, where the crows sit next to the wolves in anticipation. In this case, the plot illustrates them as the next participants in the meal, because crows are able to lead a pack of wolves to a fallen animal, but they are not able to pierce the thick skin of a mountain goat (animal) with their beak. Wolves leave part of the prey after the meal, that is, they generously share with the crows.