Issyk-type Dagger from Temirshi, Central Kazakhstan: Results of Metallographic, Chemical and Traceological Analysis

Abstract

One of the most widespread types of weaponry of the Scythian-Saka period in Eurasia are daggers with a pommel in the form of opposing griffin heads. D. Topal recently combined this type of weapons into a special group of “Issyk-type akinakes” (2021), which includes a specimen found near MountTemirshi in Central Kazakhstan. The date of the dagger is the second half of the 6th — the first half of the 5th centuries BC. Special studies showed that the dagger from Temirshi was made from a piece of iron by forging when heated to a temperature of 700—750 °C. The final short-term annealing took place at a temperature not exceeding 900 °C. Such operations as cutting and bending the neck of griffins, preparing the shape of the hilt and guard, were carried out after the metal had cooled. When making relief details on the hilt, guard and head of the griffin, the ancient master used a variety of cutting and grinding tools. Master’s skill at iron-working, as well as some features of his tools show a high level of blacksmithing among the population of the Tasmola culture of Central Kazakhstan.