The History of Egypt Podcast Old Kingdom Technology with Dr. Martin Odler
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Oct 14, 2013 In this engaging discussion, Dr. Martin Odler, an expert in ancient Egyptian technology, shares his research on metalworking, particularly copper tools used in the monumental construction of the Giza pyramids. He explains how copper was employed in weaponry and daily life, and highlights the significance of arsenical copper over traditional methods. Dr. Odler also delves into the portrayal of metalworking in ancient art, offering insights into the archaeological sites that reveal their historical context. His methodical approach brings the fascinating world of ancient Egypt's metallurgy to life!
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Late Bloomers
- Egyptians adopted metallurgy later than other Eastern Mediterranean cultures, after 4000 BCE.
- The earliest evidence comes from the Badarian culture and the Madi site, potentially linked to the Southern Levant and Sinai.
Dating Dilemmas
- Dating metal artifacts is tricky due to their potential use as heirlooms.
- The Madi site offers reliable dating between 3800-3400 BCE, linking it to the Nakada culture.
Sources of Study
- Egyptologists study metallurgy using texts, iconography, and archaeological contexts.
- Early studies by Lepsius focused on translating terms, while Champollion's era saw initial attempts at chemical analysis.
