Ancient DNA reveals elite dynastic rule among Iron Age Eurasian Steppe nomads

Reconstructions of selected high-status individuals and a map of sites included in the study.

(A) Geographical distribution of sampled sites and individuals. Exemplary reconstructions are shown for individuals from sites Berel, Eleke Sazy, Issyk, Shilikty, and Tasaryk (Urdzhar), as well as images of elite kurgans and artifacts found at the same sites. The Eastern Scythian region is indicated with shading and geographical areas for selected archaeological cultures are shown.

(B) Temporal distribution of the samples based on site and sorted chronologically. All reconstructions of clothing and weapons were made by K. Altynbekov (Ostrov Krym), except for Eleke Sazy, which was done under the supervision of Z. Samashev. Illustrations were made by A. Kumarbekova on the basis of the reconstructions.

Credit: Nrken19