Technological reconstruction of the late prehistoric primary copper production of the Vilabouly Complex (central Laos)

The late prehistoric copper production site of the Vilabouly Complex in central Laos delivered different types materials that seem to be related chaine oppératoire for two main sites, Puen Baolo and Thong Na Nguak: minerals, slags crucible fragments. A selection these artefacts were analyzed (OM, SEM–EDS, XRD, bulk analyses) study extraction techniques, raw used steps at Vilabouly. various analytical datasets enabled us propose a technological reconstruction, ranging from smelting casting. results suggest dedicated unalloyed with crucible-based reaction one-step process, charge mainly composed malachite occasionally mixture ores (most likely malachite/chalcocite), depending on mineralization being exploited. Slag analysis lead isotope data show variation Nguak linked zones which may also settlements/artisans and/or exploitation periods.