Exploring the chaîne opératoire of metallurgical production from ores to metals

Mélissa Cadet（Institute of History and Philology, Academia Sinica）

演講摘要

This class will be an introduction to the technical processes of metallurgical production, from the initial extraction of ores to the transformation into usable metals of different type (gold, copper, iron). It examines key stages such as mining, ore processing, smelting, refining, and metalworking (casting, forging, alloying), highlighting the technological and economic factors involved. The class also considers the economic and cultural aspects of metallurgy, including the trade, distribution, and recycling of metals. By analyzing these different steps, we gain valuable insights into the evolution of metal industries, their role in past societies, and the broader impact of metallurgical advancements on technology and resource management.

★本演講為人類學系蔡哲嫻老師開設之「考古學的工藝生產與專業化」課程舉辦，歡迎所有師生參加★