Balbals stand and wait near the Ala Tou Mountains
Kyrgyzstan 2012
These statues once guarded the grave sites of the Turkic peoples of Central Asia. Here, near the Burana Tower, they have been collected and arranged as part of a museum. They are said to depict men although I couldn’t tell that just by looking. There faces have been worn by the harsh weather, 14 centuries worth of harsh weather, but their features and clothing are still discernible. The statues were about 3 feet tall but I read that another meter of stone anchors them in the sandy soil.
It was noonish when we arrived at the museum site but luckily the sun was not directly overhead. I walked around the statues until I could see some side light on the faces. I wanted some shadows to be cast by the carved features. Luckily, I got the snow-capped Ala Tou Mountains as well in this shot. Sometimes I forget and only see the subject. It’s good to take lots of shots then just by dint of repetition, you just might find the perfect viewpoint. It’s called “working the shot”.
contact Odil at www.steppejourneys.com for help in planning a trip in Kyrgyzstan to see the balbal and other ancient rock art. Ask for Leila to be your guide if you want a knowledgeable guide.