An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c17.s3.17

v1.c17.s3.17

However clearer evidence of the performance of Vedic sacrifices is reported from KAUŚĀMBĪ, where a raised altar has been identified as a *śyena-citi* (eagle-altar) connected with the celebration of *puruṣa-medha* (human sacrifice). The altar, located outside the e. city gate, has been dated to c. 2nd century B.C. The *citi* is shaped like an eagle flying towards n.-e. and is made of several brick layers over a pit for *gārhapatya* fire at the junction of the tail and body of the eagle. From the altar were recovered animal bones bearing incision marks, a tortoise shell, a human skull and pots. A fire-place was also located on it. The details of this altar tallies to a great extent with the description of such altars in the *Śatapatha Brāhmaṇa*. Equally interesting proof of *śyena-citi* datable to c. 3rd century A.D. has also been found at JAGATGRAM. This was also in the form of an eagle or hawk with stretched wings. According to inscribed bricks found here this marked the spot where a king named Śīlavarman performed his fourth *aśva-medha* sacrifice. The pit meant for the *gārhapatya* fire was also located here.