Study of the Gilding Technology of the “Idol” from the 10th Century Mound “Chernaya Mogila” (“Black Grave”)

Abstract

A unique artifact—the “idol” from the 10th century mound “Chernaya Mogila” (“Black Grave”), a famous Old Rus’ site, has been studied. The technological features of the “idol’s” manufacture and decoration are revealed by studying the elemental composition of the metal substrate and surface layer of this object. The investigation has been performed by scanning electron microscopy with application of energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis, X-ray fluorescence integral analysis, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Based on the data obtained, it is concluded that the “idol” surface was gilded using amalgamation technology.