3 - 4 pm (CET)

Venue:

Einstein Center Chronoi 

Otto-von-Simson-Straße 7, 14195 Berlin

Lu Tian

The ancient oasis kingdoms on the edge of the Tarim Basin are sources of archaeological discoveries, including artifacts and fragments that provide insights into the history, culture, and religious practices of Central Asia, none of which are documented in official historical records. This talk investigates the identification and significance of nakṣatras (Ch. xiu宿) representations, with a particular emphasis on the relevant archeological materials discovered on the northern periphery of the Tarim Basin. Utilizing an art historical perspective, this research reevaluates these fragmentary objects, which have received little scholarly attention, in terms of their sources, illustrations, and functions. This examination clarifies the intertwined nature of Old Uyghur lunar astrology during the medieval period and demonstrates how knowledge of nakṣatras was disseminated, transformed, and perceived among various ethnic groups along the ancient Silk Roads.

Participants can join the online Chronoi Talk by clicking on the following link:

https://fu-berlin.webex.com/fu-berlin-en/j.php?MTID=mbbf0032e376ea6d33edc1f96121e6727

The conference room can be accessed using the following methods:

• Joining directly in your browser; simply click the link above, and look for a button with this option near the bottom of the webpage.

• Downloading the program to your computer (instructions can be found by following the meeting link)

• Using the smartphone app called “Cisco Webex Meetings."

You are welcome to enter the online conference room up to 15 minutes in advance of the start time.