The adoption of cast iron production technology in the Hoseo region as seen through Iron Horse-shaped Buckle

This study examines iron horse-shaped Buckle excavated from the Hoseo region. Although such artifacts are rare, an analysis of their excavation contexts suggests that they were not exclusively owned by exceptional individuals. Based on typological classification and production techniques, these items appear to have emerged as a result of accepting cast iron production technology introduced during Baekje’s westward expansion in the 4th century. Furthermore, by approaching the issue from the perspective of the interaction between material and human agency, this study investigates the artisan groups who adopted the technology and the social value of iron horse-shaped Buckle. The findings indicate that the acceptance and production of this technology were carried out by indigenous artisan groups in the Mahan cultural sphere, and that iron horse-shaped Buckle did not fully replace their bronze counterparts in terms of social significance. Although the study is limited by the quantitative constraints of analyzing only two artifacts, it is hoped that this research will stimulate further studies on iron horse-shaped Buckle and other animal-shaped Buckle.