IMC 2019: Sessions

Paper -a:
Artificial Cranial Deformation (ACD) is a phenomenon known worldwide. In my paper I will focus on the findings in Middle Europe from the 4th to the 6th century. To deform children's heads was the decision of their parents. This makes the infantile human body a place of (body) art and gives rise to the question of motivation behind this practice. The findings show that no connection between social status and ACD can be demonstrated. ACD is thus linking the individual with the cultural environment of the parental generation. In my paper I will consult the attempts of human agency, which can bring new insights to this phenomenon of the ancient world.

Paper -b:
More than 50 medieval swords (11th-15th century) were found in the Ljubljanica river which, as an important communication route in central Slovenia from prehistory onwards, yielded thousands of finds from all periods. The swords are analysed in contexts of broader material evidence from the river and surrounding Ljubljana marshes, as well as within the possible network of settlements, ports, fords, and routes. They are not interpreted as being intentionally thrown into the Ljubljanica due to their symbolic meaning or as part of a cult but primarily reflect the communication role of the river and the strategic importance of Ljubljana in relation to medieval Carniola and Slovene lands.