The Technological Analysis of Earrings from a Burial with a Horse Skin at the Koybaly Cemetery, Khakassia

Abstract

We reconstruct the manufacturing process of unique earrings from a medieval burial at Koybaly, Khakassia, presumably representing the Old Turkic goddess Umay. The composition of the alloy is assessed, tools presumably involved in the manufacture are described, stages of the technological process are evaluated, design defects and reasons underlying mechanical damage are discussed. On the basis of the results of the technological analysis, a two-stage manufacturing process was reconstructed. First, bird-like figures with convex anthropomorphic images were made in the center of a flattened plate decorated with filigree. The material was an alloy consisting of silver (up to 98 %) and copper (up to 3 %). Individual elements were joined using silver-lead solder. At the final stage, fire gilding of the entire surface was carried out. All these operations testify to a high professional level. Next, additional elements were attached, and the ornaments were radically reshaped into earrings with an entirely different design. Globular pendants were rather carelessly attached with thin silver wire. On the outer surfaces, traces of wear were found, apparently caused by long use after the reshaping of the plates into earrings. The condition of the ornaments at the time of burial suggests that the manufacture, reshaping, and repair were performed by three different persons. Each used his own tools and materials, and their professional habits and skills, too, were different.