jpost.com
Recycled Chinese Mirrors Found in Japanese Kofun Period Imitations
A study in Archaeometry shows that Japanese imitation bronze mirrors from the Kofun period (300-538 CE) were made by recycling imported Han Chinese bronze mirrors and copper, with up to 33% of the lead originating from the added copper, challenging previous assumptions about local material use.
- How did the researchers use lead isotope ratios to determine the source of lead in the imitation mirrors?
- The study's modelling combined data on tin, lead, and lead isotopes to determine the source of materials in Japanese imitation mirrors. This approach allowed researchers to estimate the proportion of recycled Chinese bronze mirrors and added copper, concluding that both likely originated in China. The findings challenge assumptions about the availability of local materials and highlight the reliance on imported resources in ancient Japan.
- What broader implications does this study have for understanding ancient trade networks and recycling practices in East Asia?
- This research provides a novel approach for investigating ancient recycling practices using a combination of major element and lead isotope modelling. Future applications of this methodology could clarify the source of materials in other ancient artifacts and shed light on trade networks and resource management strategies. The study raises questions about whether the recycled mirrors were intentionally imported as scrap or repurposed from existing precious mirrors.
- What is the primary finding of the study regarding the origin of materials used in Japanese imitation bronze mirrors during the Kofun period?
- A recent study published in Archaeometry reveals that Han Chinese bronze mirrors were recycled into Japanese imitation mirrors during the Kofun period (300–538 CE). Researchers used elemental and lead isotope data from 18 bronze mirrors from the Maruyama Tomb to model the process, confirming earlier hypotheses about the reuse of imported Chinese mirrors. The model showed that up to 33% of the lead in the imitations came from added copper, likely also imported from China.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is largely neutral, presenting the study's findings objectively. The emphasis is on the scientific process and results. The inclusion of quotes from the lead author and reference to prior research helps maintain an objective tone. However, the concluding sentence, suggesting a definitive answer ('Most likely, these imitation mirrors were made by diluting imported Chinese Han-style mirrors with imported Chinese copper'), could be slightly softened to reflect the ongoing nature of archaeological inquiry.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the scientific methodology and findings of the study, potentially omitting broader historical context regarding trade relations between China and Japan during the Kofun period. The article does not delve into potential social or economic implications of the recycling practices, such as the status of those creating the mirrors or the market for these objects. While this might be due to space constraints, a brief mention of these broader aspects would improve the article.
Sustainable Development Goals
The study highlights the recycling of Han Chinese bronze mirrors in Japan, showcasing sustainable practices of reusing materials. Analyzing the composition of the recycled mirrors provides insights into resource management and material flows in ancient societies. This contributes to understanding sustainable consumption and production patterns in the past, which can inform contemporary practices.