Copper processing in the oases of northwest Arabia: technology, alloys and provenance. (January 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Liu, Siran; Rehren, Thilo; Pernicka, Ernst; Hausleiter, Arnulf
• Is Part Of: Journal of archaeological science. Volume 53(2015:Jan.)
• Page Start: 492
• Page End: 503
• Publication Date: 2015-01
• Subjects: Archaeometallurgy -- Copper smelting -- Arsenical copper -- Bronze alloying -- Saudi Arabia -- Late Bronze Age -- Roman -- Arabian Peninsula; Archaeology -- Periodicals; Archéologie -- Périodiques; 930.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2014.10.030
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0305-4403

Abstract

Abstract: Very little is known about early metallurgical activity in the north-western part of the Arabian Peninsula, despite the region's cultural importance. To begin to address this research lacuna, metallurgical remains including crucible fragments, metal dross and a copper artefact were sampled from two oases in northwest Arabia, Qurayyah and Tayma. The metallurgical activity in Qurayyah is dated to the Late Bronze Age, and in Tayma to the Roman/Late Roman period. At both sites we identified evidence for copper alloying and refining. Small scale copper smelting might also have been practiced in Qurayyah. Arsenical copper was processed at both sites, but in Tayma tin bronze and leaded tin bronze dominated. The chemical analysis of metal prills in crucible linings showed that fresh copper and tin instead of scrap metal were employed in these processes. Lead isotope analysis indicates that at least some of the Tayma metal was imported. Access to raw materials from remote areas is consistent with the importance of Tayma in the trading network of northwest Arabia. Highlights: Arsenical copper production in NW Arabia during the Bronze Age. Active alloying of copper and tin in urban centre during Roman Period. Small-scale operation likely for local consumption. Multiple metal sources linked to long-distance trade.