The technology and chronology reflected in the iron assemblage from the Pazyryk-type burials in the Mongolian Altai and the coming of iron in Mongolia

Abstract

The excavation of the frozen tombs at Pazyryk in the Altai recovered well-preserved archaeological evidence of the Scythian material culture distinguished, among other things, by the early exploitation of iron and horses. The recent recovery of numerous iron objects from similar Pazyryk-type burials in the Mongolian Altai has made it possible to discuss pertinent iron technology and its application to making tools and horse gear, key artifacts defining the Scythian material culture. Metallographic analysis revealed they were made of bloomery iron, frequently carburized. In addition, radiocarbon measurements placed their chronology at around 400 BC, confirming them as one of the practical examples of iron use in the Altai region. We put this early iron technology and its chronology in comparative perspective to discuss the coming of iron, particularly in Mongolia, and its impact on later technological and sociopolitical developments.