Observations on the significance of discoveries in extra-Carpathian space (VI - VII century AD) Cover Image

Observatii privind semnificatia unor descoperiri din spatiul extracarpatic (sec. VI - VII p. Chr.)
Observations on the significance of discoveries in extra-Carpathian space (VI - VII century AD)

Author(s): Andrei Măgureanu
Subject(s): Archaeology
Published by: Muzeul Judetean Buzău
Keywords: the moulds; ancient roads; communication

Summary/Abstract: 6th and 7th centuries. In this paper I study a number of moulds, grouped in three series, according to their characteristics. First group is formed by eight moulds that have in common following characteristics: all were isolated discoveries; all have an almost identical item (rectangular shape appliqué); all respect a special technique of cast. The second group is not so numerous. Only four moulds we can ascribe to it, but is a very homogenous one. Its main characteristic is that those moulds were used to cast small pieces, decorate with pseudo-granule, pieces that will decorate an object. Another characteristic is the existence of a same form on each of them. The third group is a mixed one. It is formed by a mould and two pendants. Its only characteristic is that the pendants have a correspondent in an item graved on the mould. This situation is almost a unique situation. Finally what those three groups can tell us? We think that those moulds reflect a south Danube influence easily seen on the level of decoration of pieces. Then we can figure something about the fashion, about the goldsmith, about offering and demand, about the power of somebody that can afford to call an itinerant goldsmith to make him a jewel. And not to the last, we think we have argues that this three groups marked ways of communications between different communities. After all, even the territory we have study in this paper is at periphery of power centre (Avars, Byzantine Empire or north Pontic steppes one) we can see certain dynamics of nonferrous metallurgy, dynamics caused by some needs of different communities (persons), a dynamics that respond to a fashion largely influenced from south of Danube.

  • Issue Year: 2008
  • Issue No: 13
  • Page Range: 173-190
  • Page Count: 18
  • Language: Romanian