Nicolas GIRAULT, Silvia PAÏN, Aurore DORIDOT, Jean-Yves HUNOT A COLLECTION OF ATYPICAL IRON HARNESS-FITTINGS FROM CHEVREUSE CASTLE (YVELINES): An Interdisciplinary Approach

Abstract

Iron objects found during excavations on the site of the Madeleine Castle in Chevreuse (Yvelines) include an atypical group of 71 iron harness-fittings dating from the end of the medieval period. Archaeological and archaeometrical studies (x-ray, physical and chemical analysis, SEM, wood analysis), combined with systematic conservation, have revealed new data. The study included examination of wood remains on 19 objets and the identification of several unknown forms, as well as revealing a surprising copper-based plating on 78% of the items. Information obtained has enabled us to submit hypotheses concerning the fabrication of plated iron projectile heads and shafts. The research carried out has lead to consideration of the investigatory protocols necessary for iron objects, even when badly corroded: constant exchange between the finds specialist, conservator and archeometrist may allow retrieval of information hidden in corrosion products.

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