Crow’s Feet

Description

So-called crow’s feet, “Sörgöö” in Mongolian, were scattered on the ground during military actions, particularly to stop enemy cavalry. They had four barbed points and were forged in such a way that one point always pointed upwards when thrown on the ground. This was intended to injure and incapacitate enemy horses and men.

These “Sörgöö” were found in a jar in the burnt citadel of Karabalgasun. It is possible that the Uyghurs had prepared a defense of their fortress, but in vain. The citadel, like the entire city, was burned down by the attacking Jennissei Kirghiz in 840.

3D Visualisation

3D Model: H. Rohland

Images: O. Mey / M. Wartmann