Urban Networks and Arctic Outlands: Craft Specialists and Reindeer Antler in Viking Towns
Steven P. Ashby|Ashley N. Coutu|Søren M. Sindbæk
This paper presents the results of use a minimally destructive biomolecular technique to explore resource networks behind one first specialized urban crafts in early mediaeval northern Europe: manufacture composite combs deer antler. The research incorporates largest application species identification by peptide mass fingerprinting (ZooMS) artefact assemblage: specifically collections antler combs, comb manufacturing waste, and raw from Ribe, Aarhus, Aggersborg. It documents reindeer ( Rangifer tarandus ) antler, 780s AD at latest, presenting earliest unambiguous evidence for exchange-links between markets southern North Sea region Scandinavian Peninsula. demonstrate that common conceptual distinction hinterlands long-distance trade conceals vital continuity. Long-range were activities appearance towns this part world, preceding historically documented maritime expansion Viking Age. We consequently suggest urbanism is more appropriately defined researched terms network dynamics than as function circumscribed catchment areas or hinterlands.
European Journal of Archaeology|White Rose Research Online (University of Leeds, The University of Sheffield, University of York)