Chemical Composition of Christian and Pagan Metal Antiquities from Excavations at Medieval Novgorod on the Base of Interdisciplinary Research

Abstract

This paper focused on the new chemical data of the 94 Christian and pagan metal artifacts, which have been found at the excavation of Medieval Novgorod and the Novgorod region. These data were obtained using the EDXRF nondestructive method within an interdisciplinary research project. Most artifacts are pendant crosses; round pendants and mounts with saints, fragments of church polycandelons, and pagan pendant amulets. The results have been statistically processed. Tin–lead bronzes are clearly predominant. There are also mixed copper alloys (gunmetal) with tin, zinc, and lead, and lead brass. The proportions of silver and lead–tin alloys, as well as pure tin and lead, are modest. These data, supplemented by subsequent Pb isotope and ICP-MS studies, and their geological interpretation will make it possible to reveal possible sources for the metals of the Novgorod artifacts.