The Ritual Sacrifice below the Walls of Dorostol (litho)

The Ritual Sacrifice below the Walls of Dorostol. Sviatoslav, the first truly Slavonic ruler of Russia, engaged in many wars, principally against the Pechonegs, a people of Mongolian origin who occupied the lands by the river Don, where Dorostol is situated. The King never became a Christian, although his mother, Olga, was a convert to the new faith. His attachment to the old gods may be seen in the illustration, which represents a massacre and sacrifice in gratitude for their favours and to obtain the continuance of them. Illustration for Hutchinson's History of the Nations (Hutchinson, c.1920). Note: Image has been digitally enhanced to facilitate repro.