Moving metals III: Possible origins for copper in Bronze Age Denmark based on lead isotopes and geochemistry. (August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Melheim, L.; Grandin, L.; Persson, P.-O.; Billström, K.; Stos-Gale, Z.; Ling, J.; Williams, A.; Angelini, I.; Canovaro, C.; Hjärthner-Holdar, E.; Kristiansen, K.
• Is Part Of: Journal of archaeological science. Volume 96(2018)
• Page Start: 85
• Page End: 105
• Publication Date: 2018-08
• Subjects: Denmark -- Bronze Age copper-alloys -- Lead isotopes -- Trace elements -- Reuse of samples -- Provenance of copper -- Exchange networks; Archaeology -- Periodicals; Archéologie -- Périodiques; 930.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2018.04.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0305-4403

Abstract

Abstract: This article presents the results of a comprehensive provenance study based on a combined geochemical-isotopic and archaeological approach, comprising 98 analyses of 97 copper-alloy objects from the Danish Bronze Age. When it comes to the question of the origin of the metal, our interpretations diverge somewhat from earlier established theories about the origin of copper imported to Denmark, which mainly pointed to Central and Eastern Europe. Clear geochronological patterns in the Danish dataset are interpreted as being due to shifts in ore sources; reflecting varying areas of origin as well as the utilization of varying ore types. This again relates to shifting trade networks/suppliers and shifting technological trends. Plausible sources for Danish copper-alloys identified in the current study are ore regions in the British Isles, Alpine ore districts in Italy and Austria, as well as ore regions in the western part of the Mediterranean and to some degree the Slovak Carpathians . The comparison includes hundreds of recently published lead isotope data for ores in Slovakia, the Iberian Peninsula and the Italian and Austrian Alps. Highlights: A variety of ore districts contributed to the metal circulating in Bronze Age Denmark. Mining regions in Wales and the Italian Alps two potentially major supply areas. Changes in ore sources coincided with other processes of profound cultural change. No patterned correspondence between ore source and typology; imported metal recast.