Journal of Siberian Federal University. Humanities & Social Sciences / The Chemistry and Physics of Traditional Leatherworking among Hunters and Reindeer Herders in Siberia

Full text (.pdf)
Issue
Journal of Siberian Federal University. Humanities & Social Sciences. 2026 19 (10)
Authors
Diachenko, Vladimir I.
Contact information
Diachenko, Vladimir I. : Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography (Kunstkamera) RAS (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation); ; ORCID: 0000-0002-4423-1359
Keywords
Siberian hunters and reindeer herders; traditional leather processing; enzymatic technologies; fat sources; chemical and physical processes
Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of traditional methods of leather dressing by the indigenous peoples of Siberia, considering them as an important element of material culture and cultural heritage. The study examines the traditional methods of leather dressing among hunters and reindeer herders in Siberia, demonstrating a high degree of adaptation to extreme climatic conditions and rational use of natural resources. In contrast to modern paradigms, a number of materials, such as deer stomach contents, ash, manure, moss, bark and wood dust, were considered by Siberian ethnic groups as renewable natural resources. Their widespread use, due to the specifics of economic activity and the unique ecological features of the region, indicates a deep understanding of biospheric processes and harmonious interaction with the environment. The accumulated knowledge forms not only a technological complex, but also a holistic philosophy of life based on respect for nature and the identification of value in its components

Pages
2152–2160
EDN
YYSBFL
Paper at repository of SibFU
https://elib.sfu-kras.ru/handle/2311/160178

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