Archaeometallurgical Characterisation of Iron Production at Mukongoro Rock Art Site in Eastern Uganda
Abstract
This paper reconstructs the nature of iron production technology through the morphological analysis of slag and tuyere remains at the Mukongoro rock art site in Eastern Uganda. The specific objectives included: characterising the technological features of iron production depicted from slag and tuyere remains, reconstructing the iron production process by interpreting attributes such as slag and tuyere morphology, colour and magnetism, and enhancing understanding of iron production traditions in eastern Uganda to position Mukongoro rock art sites and Uganda within regional and global archaeometallurgical debates. Through archaeological surveys and excavations, 2,861 slag and 199 tuyere remains were identified. The attributes analysed included thermal conditions, morphology, surface condition, magnetism, weathering, colour, porosity, and inclusions. Morphological analysis indicates that the slag is predominantly flow slag, characterised by a dome-shaped morphology. The slag exhibited medium magnetism, a dark brown colour, low porosity, and most inclusions were infused in a very rough surface, implying the use of low temperatures, skill, and a deliberate choice by the people at the time. While the tuyeres were 35mm in diameter, they showed no evidence of slag coating or clogging, and some were primarily composed of completely vitrified body parts, suggesting the use of small furnaces. Therefore, iron production technology at Mukongoro is characterised by a non-tapping bloomery, as evidenced by its dome shape. The rough surface and black and grey colours reflect the skill of the smelters, who likely used low temperatures and insufficient airflow. The inclusions of reeds, grass and a leaf indicated the use of plants at the various stages of iron production..
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Copyright (c) 2025 Elizabeth Kyazike, Fatumah Mirembe, Ssemulende Robert, Nyiracyiza Jackline Besigye, Ayebare Eugene, Okeny Charles Kinyera, Namuddu Teddie
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