Emergence of monopoly-Copper exchange networks during the Late Bronze Age in the western and central Balkans

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Conflicts of Interest

Identified Weaknesses

Rating Explanation

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Paper Summary

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Balkan Bronze Age: Mostly Italian Copper, Who Knew?

This study found that copper from the southern Alps (Trentino region, Italy) was the primary source for bronze objects in the western and central Balkans during the Late Bronze Age (14th-9th c. BC), challenging previous assumptions about local ore usage. This suggests a vast, sustained raw material procurement network from the Alps to the Balkans, despite limited evidence for other cultural exchange during this period.

Possible Conflicts of Interest

None identified.

Identified Weaknesses

Limited Sample Size

The sample size is relatively small, particularly for certain object categories and time periods, limiting the generalizability of findings about specific alloys and practices.

Lack of Comparative Data

The lack of comparable data from neighboring regions, especially for the later periods (Ha B1 and Ha B3), makes it difficult to assess if observed trends are regional or more localized.

Over-reliance on Typology

The paper relies heavily on typological and distributional analyses, which can be subjective and don't always provide definitive proof of production location. Independent confirmation through craft production debris analysis would add more scientific weight.

Incomplete Analysis of Mixing/Recycling

While the paper acknowledges the possibility of mixing and recycling influencing metal composition, it doesn't fully explore this, potentially oversimplifying the interpretation of the data. More in-depth analysis is needed.

Missing Sulfur Analysis

The lack of analysis of sulfur, a key element in copper sulfide ores, makes it difficult to have a comprehensive view of ore composition.

Rating Explanation

This is a well-researched paper that uses a solid methodology (chemical composition, lead isotope analysis) to reach a significant new finding - the dominance of southern Alpine copper in Balkan metal objects. It acknowledges the current state of research and formulates research perspectives. While the small sample size and lack of comparative data are limitations, these don't invalidate the core findings. The paper could improve with some more in-depth discussion of mixing/recycling and further exploration of some outlying data points, but overall it provides valuable insights into Late Bronze Age metal exchange networks. Given the methodological soundness and the significance of the findings for our understanding of the LBA, this work deserves a rating of 4.

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