Tehran – A study by researchers at the Iranian National Museum has published new insights into the patterns of animal exploitation during the Iron Age in Gilan province, surrounded by the Caspian Sea, north of the country.
The findings published earlier this week in the Iranian National Museum Seminar Series provide important evidence on the self-sufficiency strategies and human-animal relationships in the Western Alborz Mountains from 1500 to 550 BC.
A research team led by Dr. Marjan Mashkour and Dr. Hossein Davoudi of the Iranian National Museum Museum conducted a detailed analysis of animal bones from two important Iron Age sites. Excavated in the past decades, these archaeological sites provided an unusual opportunity to study settled sites from the time well known for their cemeteries.
According to this study, domesticated animals such as sheep, goats and cattle formed the basis of the local economy at both sites. “The advantage of these species indicates a well-developed animal care system,” explained Dr. Davoudi in his presentation. This study also reveals the complementary roles of hunting species such as wild boar, red deer, and gazelles, suggesting mixed self-sufficiency strategies.
In particular, the team discovered an interesting variation between the two sites. They shared similar species, but the proportions were very different. “These patterns are likely to reflect changes in herd practices over time and adaptation to local environmental conditions,” Dr. Davoudi noted. The presence of horses and donkeys in both ancient sites points to its use in transport and daily labor.
The bones of the animal studied have been carefully preserved as part of the museum’s long-term “Curation and Documentation of Osteological Collections” project, which began in 2011, and was directed by Dr. Marjan Mashkour. This latest research is based on its basic work and applies the latest analytical techniques to better understand the ancient economic system.
Archaeologists emphasize the importance of such bioarchaeological research in Iran’s Iron Age. There, the settlement remains in place compared to the cemetery.
Looking ahead, researchers plan to integrate their discoveries with ongoing research into plant ruins and material cultures to nurture a more inclusive picture of the local Iron Age life. They hope that their work will inspire similar research at other important sites in Iran.
The Iranian National Museum continues to hold seminar series, showing cutting-edge research into Iran’s rich cultural heritage.
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