Coatings on bronze objects from the Circumpontic historical and cultural zone: dynamics of spread and finds overview
https://doi.org/10.18384/2949-5164-2024-5-64-78
Abstract
Aim. To review archaeological finds of IV–III millennium BC from the territory of South European Russia and the Near East which have surface coatings of various metals.
Methodology. A selection of ancient bronze objects with metal coatings is compiled, classification of products depending on their function and chronology is given, characteristics of the method of coating application and material are listed.
Results. A series of bronze artifacts of IV–III millennia BC was collected from academic publications, their common feature was revealed – the presence of coatings made of silver, gold, arsenic and tin. It was discovered that the coatings were applied in various ways: they were fixed mechanically in the form of foil inlay; plaits; obtained during complex technological processes of liquation, tinning.
Research implications. It was established that metal products with coatings (inlays) constitute a characteristic feature of metal production within the Circumpontic metallurgical province of the Early and Middle periods of the Bronze Age. In the society of the IV–III millennium BC gold and silver items were markers of the high social status of their owners and reflected formation of the elite layer.
Keywords
Circumpontic historical and cultural zone,
Bronze Age,
archeological finds,
metal production,
coatings,
metals,
alloys
Supporting agencies: The work was carried out within the framework of NIOKTR 122011200270-0 “Dynamics of the development of spiritual and material culture in the Eneolithic – Bronze Age (Southeast Europe, Caucasus, Front East)”.
About the Author
L. I. Avilova
The Institute of Archaeology, Russian Academy of Sciences
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Lyudmila I. Avilova – Dr Sci (History), Leading Researcher,
ul. Dm. Ulyanova 19, Moscow 117292
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