A.A. Tishkin and Y.V. Frolov
Altai State University, Pr. Lenina 61, Barnaul, 656049, Russia
This article describes a series of Bronze Age metal axes from the forest-steppe zone of the Altai. Most are random finds without definite cultural or chronological attribution. We provide a detailed description of four specimens from Bor-Forpost, Mamontovo, Karpovo, and Severny, owned by various museums of the Altai Territory. The chemical composition of alloys is assessed by X-ray fl uorescence spectrometry. Results are discussed with reference to bronze metallurgy, sources of copper ore, and typological parallels. The chronology of each type of axe is tentatively evaluated in the context of Middle and Late Bronze Age cultures of the Ob-Irtysh watershed and adjoining regions.
