X-ray-Fluorescence Mapping of the Elemental Composition and Process of Making the Roman Figured Weight from the Eklizi-Burun Sanctuary in Mountain Crimea

• Published in: Nanobiotechnology Reports (Online) 2021-09, Vol.16 (5), p.598-606
• Main Authors: Lysenko, A. V., Mordvintseva, V. I., Antipenko, A. V., Smekalova, T. N., Leonov, L. L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Chemistry and Materials Science; Composition; Egress; Industrial and Production Engineering; Machines; Manufacturing; Mapping; Materials Science; Mountains; Nanotechnology; Natural Scientific Methods in Studying Cultural Heritage Objects; Processes; Statuary; Tin bronzes; X-ray fluorescence
• ISSN: 2635-1676; 1995-0780; 2635-1684; 1995-0799
• DOI: 10.1134/S2635167621050165

— The paper presents findings of X-ray fluorescence mapping of the alloy composition of suspended weight from a Roman “quick” balance in the form of a bust. The weight was found at the Eklizi-Burun sanctuary (southern part of Mountain Crimea). Its figural casing is cast of high-tin bronze with an uneven amount of tin in various parts of the sculpture. An increased content of tin (more than 35.6%) was found in the face area). The hollow core is completely or partially filled with heavier lead, its egress on the surface was recorded using XRF spot analysis. The amount of lead in the weight was adjusted to be calibrated to a particular balance. The weight from the Eklizi-Burun sanctuary conceivably bear witness to one of the early encounters of the population of the Northern Black Sea region with relatively complex devices and technologies developed in the Roman Empire.