Determination of the origin of lead objects from Risan and Riječani (Montenegro) based on lead isotope analysis

The determination of the origin of raw material is an important aspect of archaeological research. This study attempts to identify the sources of lead ores used to produce lead objects by communities inhabiting the Bay of Kotor and its surroundings between 3 BC and the Middle Ages. The objects come from archaeological sites in Risan and Riječani (Montenegro). Samples were taken from joints of columns and pedestals. One sample was identified as probably recycled, indicated by a significantly increased Sn content. Pb isotopes were measured and the results were compared with literature data for Roman mines from the areas of present-day Algeria, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Israel, Italy, Montenegro, Morocco, North Macedonia, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Serbia, Tunisia and Turkey. The results indicate the use of mainly Greek and/or Serbian or Bulgarian deposits. However, a good match to the North Macedonia deposits is also visible. There are also matches to individual deposits from Italy, Romania, Turkey and Tunisia. However, these directions seem less promising due to the long transport and the availability of closerdeposits.