Online lecture: Money talks, wealth whispers: Saka microbeads’ goldsmithing
19 Feb 2024
Abstract: The Saka microbeads emerged as the standout stars of the 'Gold of the Great Steppe' exhibition at the Fitzwilliam Museum in the UK in 2022. They sparked extensive discussions about their manufacturing technologies among both the public and specialists. Despite being truly microscopic, with some having a diameter of less than 1 mm, they played a significant role in Iron Age Saka society. Remarkably, considering the amazing variety of their shapes and the meticulous manufacturing technologies involved, these microbeads remain surprisingly little known outside of Kazakhstan. In my presentation, I will showcase the beauty of the Saka microbeads and delve into their production and usage, with specific focus on mushroom microbeads from Shilikty kurgan cemetery.
Name of a speaker: Saltanat Amir
Bio of a speaker: I am currently a fourth-year PhD student at the University of Cambridge, Department of Archaeology, and a Harding Distinguished Postgraduate Scholar. Originally hailing from Kazakhstan, my primary academic focus lies in the archaeology of Eurasian Steppe Civilizations and Central Asia, particularly emphasizing archaeometallurgy and goldsmithing technologies.
In 2021, I served as a Project Curator for the 5-star exhibition "Gold of the Great Steppe," organized by the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge in collaboration with the Oskemen Museum of Local History.
In addition to my MSc degree in Archaeological Science, I also
Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88581872668?pwd=UmtuQnRLWkkzRDFsR3pyNXFmWkJqdz09
Идентификатор конференции: 885 8187 2668
Код доступа: 417100