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Novozhilov A. Reindeer Herding Complex of the Peoples of Western Siberia: Research by V. A. Kozmin

A. Novozhilov
Saint Petersburg State University
St. Petersburg, Russia
ORCID: 0000-0002-2754-7909
E-mail: novogilov@mail.ru

 

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ABSTRACT. The article explores the theoretical contributions of Valerian A. Kozmin, former head of the Department of Ethnography and Anthropology at Saint Petersburg University (1950–2014; department head from 2002 to 2012). It focuses on the scholar’s views regarding the typological approach to studying the traditional cultures of the peoples of Western Siberia, emphasizing the method’s formal precision and functional relevance. The article also examines Kozmin’s perspectives on ethnographic source studies, particularly the formation of ethnographic sources throughout the research process from field collection to laboratory analysis. From these foundational ideas, Kozmin developed the concept of cultural complexes, a key focus of his scholarly work. The article addresses terminological challenges that emerged during the formation of this concept and explores it in greater depth through case studies drawn from Kozmin’s writings on Western Siberian ethnography, particularly his descriptions of nart (sled) transport, portable dwellings, and distinctive clothing. A central theme of the article is the reindeer herding complex within the culture of the Samoyedic peoples, which is presented as a significant theoretical contribution to the field. Special attention is given to the contemporary relevance of the cultural complexes concept in ethnological expertise, especially in relation to reindeer herding traditions. The article also highlights Kozmin’s pivotal role in shifting the Department of Ethnography and Anthropology’s focus from paleo-ethnographic and ethnogenetic research to issues of historical ethnography.

 

KEYWORDS: typology, field ethnography, ethnographic source studies, cultural complexes, ethnological expertise 

 

DOI 10.31250/2618-8600-2025-4(30)-122-135
UDC 39 (571.1)

 

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