Oxhide

An oxhide is a large, rectangular ingot of copper or bronze, typically characterized by its distinctive shape resembling the hide of an ox, with protruding “handles” or “legs” at each corner. These ingots were produced and widely traded in the Mediterranean region during the Late Bronze Age, primarily from the 16th to the 12th centuries BCE.

Oxhide ingots served as a standardized form of metal currency and a raw material for the production of bronze tools, weapons, and other artifacts. Their standardized weight and shape facilitated their transportation and exchange over long distances, contributing significantly to the economic and trade networks of the era.

The primary sources of oxhide ingots are believed to have been Cyprus, Sardinia, and possibly the Levant. Cyprus, in particular, was a major producer of copper during the Late Bronze Age, and archaeological evidence suggests that it played a central role in the production and distribution of oxhide ingots throughout the Mediterranean.

The weight of oxhide ingots varies, but the most common weights range between 20 and 35 kilograms. The ingots were typically cast in open molds, resulting in slight variations in size and shape. The "handles" or "legs" at the corners were likely designed to facilitate handling and transportation, perhaps by attaching ropes or using poles.

Oxhide ingots have been discovered in numerous archaeological sites across the Mediterranean, including Crete, mainland Greece, Sardinia, Sicily, Turkey, and Egypt. Their presence in these locations provides valuable insights into the trade routes and economic interactions of the Late Bronze Age civilizations. The study of oxhide ingots continues to contribute to our understanding of metallurgical technology, economic systems, and intercultural exchange in the ancient Mediterranean world.