Does material matter?

The planned study will focus on specific types of earrings, buckles and belt ornaments in Early and Middle Byzantine times (6th to 12th centuries) including the particular relevant period of transition, the so-called Dark Ages between the 7th and the 9th centuries. The geographical distribution is limited to Byzantine territories, primarily concentrating on well documented sites with a great spectrum of comparable material. The goal is to work out similarities and differences within these jewellery types made of different metals from different regions in the Byzantine Empire. Subsequently the popular opinion of an interregional, central Byzantine style in object types has to be taken into consideration and possibly be juxtaposed with a regional concept: looking at the material the question arises as to whether regional influences not only in the peripheral regions but also in the heartlands of the Byzantine Empire do not play a much greater role than previously assumed in research. Distribution of the artefact groups and types will illuminate the relationship between the finds and help to establish regional characteristics within the Byzantine Empire. In this context especially the diachronic component has to be taken into account. For such an investigation an interdisciplinary approach will be pursued using the following categories: typo-chronology, decoration analysis, manufacturing technology and material analysis. The results obtained from this study will make an important contribution and can be of vital importance in regard to the social, economic and technological history of the Byzantine society. The study of changes and receptions of the material as well as of forms and motifs are essential, not only for chronological classifications but also for questions of dissemination, contacts and trade. Likewise a synopsis of the applied metals, manufacturing and decoration techniques of different jewellery types will be achieved based on comparative examples within the regions of interest and the given chronological framework. Based on the use of different materials as well as regional differences of Byzantine metal artefacts in connection with the gained knowledge of their distinct technical traditions and their chemical compositions we might receive new insights on different levels within the Byzantine society.

The study examines body and dress accessories from the Mediterranean region between the 6th and 12th centuries, with a particular focus on the materials used (precious metals vs. copper alloys), manufacturing techniques, and cultural contexts. The aim was to identify regional and interregional similarities and differences and to draw conclusions about cultural exchange and technological transfer. Methodologically, the project followed an interdisciplinary approach by combining archaeological, cultural-historical, and scientific analyses. The basis of the study consisted of relevant types of earrings, buckles, and belt ornaments, selected for their significance in chronological, typological, iconographic, technological, and geographical terms. The dataset mainly comprised already published objects from collections, museums, and archaeological excavations with secure contexts, supplemented by previously insufficiently published or unknown finds. A database specifically developed for the project's requirements was filled with archaeological, technological, and material-analytical information on around 1,000 artifacts. This was complemented by a comparative collection of published finds belonging to the relevant typological spectrum from excavations in present-day Turkey, Greece, and Egypt. The scientific investigation of 140 objects from the Collection of Classical Antiquities at the Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna formed the analytical basis of the study. Using non-destructive methods such as X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), both material composition and manufacturing techniques were examined in detail. This also enabled the investigation of fine metalworking aspects such as soldering techniques, gilding, and tool marks. The results reveal complex cultural interconnections, particularly between the Byzantine Empire and the Avar Khaganate in the Carpathian Basin (late 6th to early 9th century AD). Avar material culture proves to be strongly influenced by Byzantine traditions, reflecting a heterogeneous, multicultural population. There is ample evidence for close links between 'Avar' and 'Byzantine' or 'Italo-Byzantine' material culture. For example, in the Avar realm during the 7th and 8th centuries AD, both the frequency and technical quality of granulation on 'Byzantine-style' ornaments decrease, while the size of the granules increases. At the same time, changes in ornament design can be observed: beaded wires increasingly replaced linear granulation. Technological analyses also revealed a wide range of joining techniques in precious metal objects, thereby challenging previous assumptions about the dominance of certain methods such as 'reaction soldering'. The classification of certain object types - such as lunate earrings in openwork decoration - has also been revised, as they are now understood to belong to a broader Mediterranean tradition rather than being purely 'Byzantine'. In addition, filigree ornaments made of copper alloys were identified for the first time, providing new insights into imitation techniques. In summary, the study demonstrates that material choice, technique, and style are closely linked to cultural contacts and social factors. A comprehensive publication of the results is in preparation.