Traces of metalworking production at Zavyalovo-5

The author discusses the traces of metalworking production noted at the site of Zavyalovo-5 that dates back to the 8th-7th centuries BC. This site reveals signs of significant population migrations in that period. Due to the mixed nature of the recovered artifact complex, there are some conflicted viewpoints on its interpretation. The analysis ofthe ceramic complex has shown traces of the imported elements introduced into the Late Irmen Culture, as well as the multidirectional nature of cultural connections and the specific structure of social relations. The study addressed the influences of these processes on such an important aspect of the economy as metalworking craft. In total, eleven dwellings and three household outbuildings were fully or partially excavated at the site. Six bronze-casting zones were discovered. Traces of foundry activity were found in four dwellings and two outbuildings. The bronze foundry activities at the site are also indicated by the occurrence of several bronze objects including arrowheads, a two-part plaque, an awl, and a knife fragment, which were found in the cultural layers beyond the artifact concentrations. In addition, a small, round-bottomed casting ladle with a side handle was found in the ditch outside any foundry area. The appearance of casting ladles with protruding handles in metalworking is possibly connected with the invention of spring-type clamping forceps. The production sites included melting and utility pits. Around these, foundry equipment and bronze casting waste were found. A small number of specialized equipment pieces is noteworthy. Large pottery fragments were widely used as melting vessels. In addition, despite the significant foreign cultural influence noted in the ceramic products at the site, the bronze foundry craft largely retains the local traditions ofthe Irmen and Andronovo cultures -this is reflected in the organization of production zones, the use of buried hearths with a clay roof, and the use of pottery as crucibles.