Between Earth and Sky There Are Only a Few Large Boulders: Sovereignty and Monumentality in Central Madagascar

Authors: Kus S.¹; Raharijaona V.²

Source: Journal of Anthropological Archaeology, Volume 17, Number 1, March 1998 , pp. 53-79(27)

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Abstract:

Stone is not only good to build with but to think with as well. Rural populations in the area of Imerina in central Madagascar continue to recognize certain boulders and large stones as associated with supernatural/chthonic forces and they continue to use stone in the construction of tombs and standing stones. The royal oral traditions of Merina monarchs recorded in the 19th century associated early as well as latter ruling sovereigns with stone constructions and the mounting of sacred boulders during various rituals. Such royal use of stone was not a simple and straightforward appropriation of local symbols and world view. It was distinct from but articulated with local practices and beliefs. This may be revealed in aspects of late 18th century royal construction with stone which, while making use of the "muscle" of local populations, may also have made use of the "mind" of full-time ritual specialists from the east coast of the island. Archaeological data, royal oral traditions and ethnographic work with contemporary ritual specialists involved in constructions using large cut stones serve as sources of information for this discussion. Copyright 1998 Academic Press.

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Rhodes College, Memphis, Tennessee 2: Musee de l'Universite, Fianarantsoa, Madagascar

Publication date: 1998-03-01