The Discovery of the Scythian Golden Comb: The Crown Jewel of Solokha Kurgan

Source: Solokha Kurgan Archaeology • Scythian Treasures, Ancient Gold Artifacts, Ukrainian History, and Greco-Scythian Art

For centuries, a massive Scythian burial mound on the left bank of the Dnipro River near Nikopol held a breathtaking secret. Rising 18 meters high with a diameter of 100 meters, the Solokha kurgan remained untouched by modern archaeologists until 1912—yielding one of the most celebrated masterworks of the ancient world.

The iconic Golden Scythian Comb recovered from the head of the king's burial.

Excavations led by Professor Nikolai Veselovsky between 1912 and 1913 revealed two distinct burials. While the central tomb had been looted in antiquity, the unlooted side chamber belonged to a powerful Scythian king—complete with weapons, ceremonial vessels, sacrificed horses, and unmatched gold treasures.

To explore more about ancient steppe treasures, check out our guides on Ukraine's most famous Scythian burial mounds and Scythian gold jewelry and Akinakes swords.

The Solokha Comb Specifications:

• Weight: 294 grams of high-purity gold
• Dimensions: 12.3 cm height × 10.2 cm width
• Structure: 19 long teeth topped by a 5-lion frieze and a sculptural battle scene
• Date: Late 5th to early 4th century BC

A Masterpiece of Battle Realism

The crest features three Scythian warriors in fierce combat. The central figure—likely a Scythian king—is mounted on horseback, wearing a Greek helmet and greaves over traditional Scythian caftans and trousers. Beside him, his horse lies bleeding on the ground while a foot soldier rushes to his defense against a second assailant.

Detailed front view showing the intricate armor, weapons, and facial expressions of the warriors.

The level of detail is extraordinary: shields, bow cases (gorytos), short Akinakes swords, and spears are rendered with anatomical and historic precision. Each figure was individually chased from gold sheets, soldered together, and finished with fine engraving tools by a Greek master goldsmith working for Scythian royalty.

Reverse side of the golden crest, demonstrating complete 3D craftsmanship from all angles.

What Do You Think?

The Solokha Golden Comb remains one of the greatest masterpieces where ancient Greek art meets Scythian military culture. What detail of this 2,400-year-old treasure impresses you the most? Share your thoughts below!