Tombstones with Relief Scenes of Ploughing from Southeast Bulgaria Cover Image
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Надгробни паметници с релефни сцени на тема оране от Югоизточна България
Tombstones with Relief Scenes of Ploughing from Southeast Bulgaria

Author(s): Lyubomir Mikov
Subject(s): History, Cultural history, General Reference Works, Social history, Modern Age, 18th Century, 19th Century, Source Material
Published by: Институт за исторически изследвания - Българска академия на науките
Keywords: tombstones; relief images; ploughing; Southeast Bulgaria;

Summary/Abstract: This paper examines a group of preserved tombstones from the Strandzha-Sakar region in southeastern Bulgaria, covering areas such as Burgas, Yambol, Haskovo, Elhovo, Ivaylovgrad, and Svilengrad. These tombstones are adorned with relief images depicting two oxen harnessed to a plough, with some also including the figure of a ploughman. The earliest example dates back to 1775, and the latest to 1896. Such imagery is unique to this region and is not found elsewhere in the country. The depictions suggest that these tombstones were erected for deceased farmers, serving as a testament to their agrarian livelihood. Furthermore, the monuments highlight ploughing as both an emblem and a symbol of agriculture.

  • Issue Year: 2025
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 165-180
  • Page Count: 16
  • Language: Bulgarian
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