Two-part mould for ax
Limestone
1800 BC

Since there are no copper-bearing geological formations on Syrian territory, this metal had to be imported from the mountains of eastern Anatolia (Turkey). The copper ore underwent initial processing in the form of crushing and extraction near the mine. Ingots of the metal were then shipped to cities, where craftsmen melted it down and cast it in moulds like this one to make tools and weapons. During the melting process, the metalsmiths added other elements to the copper to produce more resistant alloys; for example, tin might be added to obtain bronze. Metallurgy in Syria entailed not only technical knowledge, but also the establishment of a supply network since metal deposits were found only in certain regions that were isolated from settled areas and since metal itself is such a heavy material that it is difficult to transport.

Tell Bazi 24 x 13 x 6.5 cm/29 x 3.7 x 1.2 cm
National Museum, Aleppo M 11304 (BZ 24/35.15)/M 11302
DAM 9 (1996) p. 37-44 Fig. 14

_{© Musée de la civilisation, 1999}