Under the Imperial Hammer – Exploring the Transition to an Iron-Based Metal Economy in Iron Age Philistia

• Applicant: Dr. Matasha Mazis, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Egyptology and Ancient Near Eastern Studies
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 541215675

This research explores the transition to an iron-based economy in Philistia (southern Levant) during the Iron IIB-C (750-539 BCE). The transition coincides with a significant turning point in the region’s socio-political and cultural history from a system of independent city-states to being a vassal of foreign imperial rule. At the core of our project is the hypothesis that the transition to an iron-based economy was propelled by a combination of factors: technological advances in the quality of iron for practical uses, reliable supplies of iron from nearby sources, centralized control over iron production (particularly for military demands), and positive cultural associations with iron as a symbol of power and strength. Crucially, however, there is a serious lack of research on the role of iron and iron production in the Iron IIB–C in this region. Our project aims to bridge this gap, drawing evidence from seven contemporary Philistine case sites. To explore our complex hypothesis, therefore, we outline a series of interconnected objectives. Central to our approach is a comprehensive analytical program. This will enable us to thoroughly examine iron artefacts, semi-processed iron products, and residues from iron production from the seven Philistine case sites. We aim to investigate the development of iron technology and production trends by examining the material characteristics of selected specimens. In so doing, our goal is to see whether there are deliberate, consistent, and contextually appropriate improvements in the quality of iron, such as using harder material for weapons and tools. As part of this investigation, we will compare certain mechanical properties of iron with copper-based items from the same period. Another facet of our research is to investigate the sources of iron and networks of iron circulation to determine if local or foreign supplies played a role in the shift to an iron-based economy. This involves comparing geochemical and isotopic signatures of iron artefacts and slags against known datasets from geological deposits and archaeological sites in the southern Levant. Finally, beyond the technical and material aspects, our research also incorporates the broader social environment. We will research primary sources and archaeological reports to understand the sociopolitical and cultural factors that may have facilitated the shift to an iron-based economy.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Israel
• International Co-Applicant: Professor Dr. Alexander Fantalkin, Ph.D.