Medieval Weights with Pseudo-Arabic Inscriptions

Abstract

Heavy medieval spherical weights dating from the end of IX till beginning of 11 c. bear pseudo-arabic inscriptions. About 35 known finds originate from a vast territory from Western Norway to lower Kama basin. The questions of chronological and geographical distribution of the heavy medieval spherical weights dating from the end of 9th till beginning of 11 c. with pseudo-arabic inscriptions are examined in the paper as well as their chronological and function and weight. About 35 known finds originate from a vast territory from Western Norway to Lower Kama basin. Pseudo-kufic marks on poles of weights follow standard scheme, which imitate central legend of a kufic dirham containing sahada. Epigraphic particularities link a prototype with ‘abbasid mint of the last quarter of 8th – first quarter of 9th c. Such weights represent 3 nominal values of about 144, 102-103 and 85-87 gr. Other finds with a simplified pseudo-arabic pattern weight about 56 gr. These weights constitute 2 metrologically isolated groups with different function. Weights of about 102-103 gr are designated for measuring set portions of raw silver and production of standard jewelry. Finds of the second group are reference calibration count weights. Values of 144 and 56 gr contain 50 and 20 standard ‘abbasid dirhams of a nominal weight minted in the second half of 8th–first third of 9th c. Value of 85-87 gr, localized at Hedeby, simultaneously contains 30 dirhams and 50 frank deniers, which allow monetary weight conversion operations.

Keywords

• archaeology
• numismatics
• Northern and Eastern Europe
• arabic silver
• ‘abbasid dirham
• pseudo-kufic
• reference count weights
• jewelry of standard weight