Characteristic early medieval belt ornaments – findings reflecting possible contacts with Southeast Europe

Abstract

The paper draws attention to some applied bronze ornament finds discovered in Dobruja, a territory in South-eastern Romania between the Danube River and the Black Sea. Most findings are belt ornaments, a few adorned bags, quivers, and horse harnesses, while some can be associated with attires. Based on available analogies, the characteristics of shape, manufacturing techniques and decoration date most of the 32 pieces to the 10th century AD. General characteristics connect the types to the Danube Region, while the bronze and lead models discovered in metal processing centres near Novosel, Zlatar, and Nadarevo (Bulgaria) link their primary distribution area to the territory of the first Bulgarian state and its area of influence. We assume that one of the finds indicates the presence of Hungarians in the Lower Danube area, probably in context with military activities.