Comparative science-based analyses of bronze grave goods

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the results of technical analyses of metal objects found in Early La Tène elite graves. These are mainly thin-walled bronze objects that are susceptible to corrosion and post-depositional damage. Various techniques and measurement tools were employed. All bronze items were analysed by handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and the spherical balls were scrutinised in several ways. In total, 161 objects were investigated. All the techniques used are non-invasive; no damage was caused to the objects or object surfaces (Sect. 10.2). In this con-tribution, we focus on three main categories of bronze objects - the situlae, phalerae and spherical balls (Tab. 10.1) - as these were found in relatively large numbers, thus allowing for comparative analyses. Small groups or single items such as wheel parts, body ornaments and a bronze bowl are reviewed within the context of the totality of studied objects (Fig. 10.2). [...]