5 more out-of-place ancient artifacts...
When ancient artifacts make their way across continents, their discovery can occasionally suggest cross-cultural exchanges that far predate those previously known to historians and anthropologists. Several such out-of-place artifacts, found far from their origins, appear to have originated in ancient China.
In July 2014, north of Atlanta, Georgia, a jade sword was discovered, partially exposed by a small stream and obscured by roots, jutting out of the earth about two meters below the bank.
Its hiding place had apparently been eroded away, thus disturbing the artifact, which seemed to have remained untouched for many years, perhaps even millennia.
The jade votive sword measures almost 30 cm in length and 6 cm in width at the handle, with a weight of nearly half a kilogram. It became immediately clear, partly due to the intricate carvings and motifs, that this artifact was not crafted by American hands.
Its blade, in line with other ancient Chinese swords, is weighted at the tip for a stronger, more devastating swing. It’s also adorned with images consistent with those of Chinese culture, including a silkworm, a dragon, and a feather crown.
Initial investigations determined the sword to be made from the mineral lizardite, and it was likely a one-of-a-kind production. Surface features indicate that it is extremely old, and there is also a small section made from an unidentified material.
The votive sword has not yet been accurately dated, but, according to the initial paper published on its discovery, quote, “the dragon and silkworm motif would date the sword to the Chunqiu period,” making it thousands of years old.
The presence of the Chinese votive sword in Georgia adds further support to theories of pre-Columbian contact with the Americas and suggests that wide-reaching intercontinental trade may have taken place much earlier than previously thought.
It is hoped that further investigative analyses will indicate the origin of the lizardite, but it is likely that we will never know the full story behind how this unique artifact came to be embedded in a bank of mud so far from its home... |
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