Symbolism in 13th-century BC Hittite Metallurgy: The Kastamonu-Kınık (Turkey) Metal Hoard, Again

Abstract

This study reexamines the Kastamonu-Kınık (Turkey) metals dated to the 13th century BC, i.e. Hittite Empire period. Even though the textual records speak about the importance about metals and metallurgy for the Hittites, material evidence is quite restricted. Therefore, the Kastamonu-Kınık finds are among the few examples that can contribute to our understanding of the Hittite metallurgy and its possible symbolic value(s). While presenting a new/unpublished group, this research discusses the results of pXRF analysis conducted on 71 objects. The sample set includes bull ryhta, bowls (including the Taprammi bowl), juglets, a sword, horn and ear parts of zoomorphic vessels as well as unidentified fragments making the data-set temporarily and spatially unique. The archaeometric research demonstrates high-tin bronzes along with the copper-nickel alloys as well as the ternary alloys of copper, tin, and nickel. Alloying practices including nickel provides a distinctive, silvery look to the artifacts. While the use of nickel is not new to the Hittite metallurgy, this study argues intentional use of nickel-bearing alloys for symbolically or religiously-loaded artifacts. This research aims to open a new discussion about the relation of metallurgy, symbolism, and color in the Hittite realm.