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Scythians was the name used by ancient Greek
writers to describe the various nomadic tribes of
southeastern Europe and Asia who dwelled north of
the Black Sea, between the Carpathian Mountains
and the Don River, in what is now Moldova, Ukraine,
and western Russia. The name was also more
generally applied to all the nomad tribes who
inhabited the steppes eastward from what is now
Hungary to the mountains of Turkistan. Scythians
kept herds of horses, cattle, and sheep, lived in tent-
covered wagons, and fought with bows and arrows on
horseback. They developed a rich culture
characterized by opulent tombs, fine metalwork, and
a brilliant art style.
The ancient artist has tamed the noble grace of the
stag to support a vessel of delicate beauty. The
animals reflect an appreciation for the natural world
that is characteristic of the outer borders of the Near
East. Its radiant form--which probably held a ritual
offering--was treasured by the age that created it.
Time has enhanced that loveliness with the patina of
rarity, which makes it even more special to our own
age.
- (PF.0344)
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