Preliminary archaeometry investigation of artifacts from the Medieval Bosnian town of Dubrovnik (Ilijas, BiH)

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to analyse archaeological artifacts found in the medieval town of Dubrovnik, near Sarajevo, using FAAS and SEM-EDS techniques. A total of 11 samples of different types were chosen: ceramic sherds, an iron nail, slag, and a piece of brocade thread. The results of the ceramic samples showed high levels of iron and manganese, most probably due to the geological bedding of the location. Trace amounts of chromium, copper, nickel, lead, and zinc further support this assumption, which means that the clay used to make ceramic was supplied in the vicinity of Dubrovnik. A painted sample of green ceramic had high levels of lead, suggesting that this metal was deliberately added to strengthen the properties of the vessel. SEM-EDS measurements of the slag showed the presence of As, Hg and Sn, and one possible explanation is that they were used in gold or silver refining processes, which according to historical reports were performed in Dubrovnik. A piece of golden thread has proven useful in determining the time frame of its origin. EDS measurement showed that the type of the manufacturing process used in the production of this golden thread did not exist before the 14th century.