Overview of the Shigir Idol Location: Shigir, Russia's Ural Mountains Year Found: 1890 Estimated Worth: Incalculable Key Highlights Historical Significance: The Shigir Idol is recognized as the oldest wooden sculpture in the world, dating back approximately 12,000 years to the Mesolithic Period, shortly after the last Ice Age.
Material and Craftsmanship: Carved from ancient wood, the idol showcases the artistic skills and cultural practices of early human societies, providing invaluable insights into prehistoric life.
Cultural Impact: The Shigir Idol not only holds archaeological importance but also serves as a symbol of human creativity and expression from a time long before written history.
Overview of the Shigir Idol Discovery
Key Highlights Location of Discovery: The Shigir Idol was found in 1890, thirteen feet below the surface in a peat bog in the Ural Mountains of Shigir, Russia.
Archaeological Significance: Researchers had been exploring the area for years due to the discovery of numerous prehistoric artifacts, but none matched the significance of the Shigir Idol.
Possible Functions: This towering wooden sculpture is believed to have served various purposes, including acting as a warning, a religious icon, or a guide for early human societies.
