The metalwork hoard from Czarków, Gliwice District, Silesian Voivodeship: discovery context, elemental composition, and wear analysis

The Czarków hoard, discovered accidentally in 1875, probably during agricultural work, comprised 21 bronzeartefacts and ceramic vessel fragments, presumably the original container. The assemblage includes socketed axes of Lusatian and Middle Danubian types, a tanged sickle, and a spearhead.Metallurgical analysis indicates the use of tin bronze with low tin and trace levels of arsenic, antimony, nickel, silver, and lead. Both local and non-local artefacts share similar metal compositions.Use-wear and manufacturing traces confirm that all axes underwent finishing and use, with evidence of blade hammering and socket edge modification, particularly on the Lusatian types. Transverse grinding traces suggest resharpening prior to deposition.Comparative studies date the hoard’s inventory to the Late Bronze Age HB2-HB3 phases (ca. 1000-750 BC).