PRESTIGIOUS WOMEN AND MEN IN THE TIMES OF ARGANTHONIOS

Abstract

This paper analyzes the historiographical and archaeological problems of the Tartessian tombs, often considered princely by the exclusive funeral deposits they contain. Certain remains, such as lux- urious gowns, metal tableware, jewelry, ivory or alabaster objects and, more exceptionally, iron weap- ons and chariots, highlight the concentration of prestigious and expensive goods by a minority social group that also hoarded the colonial trade profits. The tombs are mainly dated to the 7th century BC and evidence the local aristocracy’s adoption of funerary and power ideologies following an eastern model that thrived in various societies of the ancient Mediterranean. The final pages highlight examples of tombs of prestigious women and men found in the necropolises of southwestern Andalusia.