L. Peyronel, Weighing Silver on the scales. An overview of silver hoards and balance weights during the Middle Bronze Age in the Near East (original) (raw)

2019, in L. Rahmstorf and E. Statford (eds.), Weights and Marketplaces from the Bronze Age to the Early Modern Period., Wachholtz Verlag, Göttingen 2019, pp. 67-86

https://doi.org/10.23797/9783529035401

Abstract

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This volume presents a comprehensive examination of silver hoards and balance weights from the Middle Bronze Age (circa 2000-1600 BC) in the Near East, highlighting silver's role as a key medium of exchange and standard of value. The analysis emphasizes the importance of balance weights in understanding official standards, their distribution across territories, and the interconnectedness of various metrological systems. It is based on an interdisciplinary approach involving archaeologists, assyriologists, and numismatists, aiming to shed light on the practicalities surrounding the exchange of silver.

Key takeaways

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1. The work introduces the 'Weight & Value' series focusing on ancient weights and metrology.
2. It discusses findings from the ERC-2014-CoG project 'WEIGHTANDVALUE' regarding Bronze Age economic impact.
3. Two significant workshops were held in 2016 and 2017 to explore ancient weight systems and marketplaces.
4. The series aims to fill a gap in the publication of early metrology studies from the Chalcolithic to Medieval periods.
5. The publication is peer-reviewed and targets an international scholarly audience, enhancing accessibility.

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FAQs

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What key findings emerge regarding silver hoards in the Middle Bronze Age?add

The study reveals that silver hoards during this period were predominantly found in urban centers, indicating centralized economic control and trade routes established by 1600 BCE.

How were ancient weight systems identified and studied in this research?add

The research employed both archaeological analysis and historical records to catalog various metrological systems used throughout the Near East between 2000 and 1200 BCE.

What practical implications arise from understanding ancient metrology in trade?add

Understanding ancient metrology offers insights into economic interactions and trade regulations, which affected commercial practices across multiple cultures during the Bronze Age.

What methodological challenges were identified in studying ancient weights?add

Researchers noted difficulties in standardizing classifications of weights, as evidenced by the divergent forms and materials used across different archaeological sites.

How did market exchanges impact the valuation of silver in ancient economies?add

The findings indicate that marketplaces influenced the valuation of silver significantly, with evidence of trade transactions recorded in varying weight standards during the Middle Bronze Age.