ASTANA – “Uly Dalanyn Kemenger Galymy” (Brilliant Scholar of the Great Steppe), an exhibition dedicated to the 90th anniversary of Doctor of Historical Sciences Kemal Akishev, opened Nov. 20 at the National Museum of Kazakhstan. The renowned scientist was one of the founders of the Kazakhstan School of Archaeology.
The purpose of the exhibition is to promote Akishev’s rich heritage in the field of ancient Kazakh history and archeology. The exposition, prepared with the assistance of the Akishev Research Centre, includes his archaeological findings, documentary photo material, manuscripts and personal belongings. After the presentation, a roundtable was held with the participation of the management and staff of the museum, historians, archaeologists and anthropologists and teachers and students from various universities.
“‘The Golden Man’ is one of the main symbols of independent Kazakhstan. It was found by the expedition led by Kemal Akishev during the excavations of Issyk mound near Almaty. The unique artifact is not only the property of Kazakhstan, but the rest of the world as well,” said Darkhan Mynbai, director of the National Museum. He thanked his colleagues, students and the archaeologist’s wife for their help in organising the exhibition.
The theme of the roundtable was the trend and development prospects of the archaeology of independent Kazakhstan. Scientists have noted the significant contribution of Akishev in establishing domestic science.
“I remember how Kemal Akishev was passionate about his work. A wide range of his scientific research amazes: the Bronze Age, Andronian culture monuments, discovery of the ‘Golden Man’ Issyk burial, studying the state of ancient peoples, studying medieval monuments, monuments of urban civilisation,” said Victor Varfolomeyev, candidate of Historical Sciences and associate professor at Buketov Karaganda State University.
Over the years, Akishev led excavations of the Besshatyr necropolis, the legendary city of Otrar and many other monuments of ancient and medieval culture. Under his leadership, the Bozok settlement was opened five kilometers from the city of Astana on the eastern shore of Buzykty Lake. He was the author of more than 200 scientific papers and 15 books. Akishev, a war veteran, was awarded the Order of the Patriotic War of the First Degree, Badge of Honour, medals for Military Merit and Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War, the Order of Victory and the Order Parasat. His name is also listed in the Kazakh Golden Book of Honour.
