Byzantine Horse Skeletons of Theodosius Harbour: 2. Withers height estimation

Abstract

This study is a continuation of our previous work that focused on maintenance, intended use and pathologies of horses from the Byzantine period. In the current research Byzantine horse skeletons were investigated in order to estimate their withers heights and structural features. The skeletons were found during Marmaray Project works at Yenikapi, Istanbul, where Theodosius Harbour was located in the past. Materials have been collected during archaeological excavations started in 2004 and covering an area of 58.000 m(2). The data obtained were compared and classified. In general, the specimens were "medium" sized (38.72%, withers height 136-144 cm), and "large-medium" (36.31%, withers height 144-152 cm). According to the classification based on Brauner's metacarpal slenderness index, the horses were described as "slightly slender legged" (40%).