Scientific examination and study of the Qijia culture bronze artifacts from Mogou site in Lintan, Gansu

Abstract

Abstract The Mogou site in Lintan, Gansu, has yielded the largest collection of Qijia culture bronze artifacts discovered to date. More than 300 bronze artifacts were unearthed, including new forms such as bracelets, neck ornaments, and earrings with trumpet-shaped ends, reflecting the advanced bronze production technology during the late Qijia culture period. This paper presents an analysis of 146 bronze artifacts from the Mogou site, conducted through metallographic microscopy and SEM-EDS analysis. Our results indicate that a relatively high percentage of small ornaments, primarily made of tin bronze, underwent hot forging and cold working, while tools, primarily made of copper and tin-bronze, were typically cast. Furthermore, this study reveals the concurrent existence of leaded tin bronze and arsenical bronze during the late Qijia culture period, suggesting influences from multiple metallurgical systems.