Finds Recording and Analysis
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Archaeological Site Documentation: Recording Techniques course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
**Finds Recording and Analysis** #
**Finds Recording and Analysis**
Finds recording and analysis is a crucial part of archaeological site documentat… #
The process begins with the careful recovery of artifacts during excavation, followed by their classification, description, measurement, and recording in a systematic manner. This information is then used to analyze the finds and understand their significance in relation to the site and the broader cultural context.
The primary goal of finds recording and analysis is to extract as much informati… #
The process involves several stages:
1. **Cleaning and Conservation** #
Artifacts are carefully cleaned to remove any soil or debris that may have adhered to them during excavation. In some cases, conservation may be necessary to stabilize or preserve the artifacts, particularly if they are fragile or susceptible to deterioration.
2. **Classification and Description** #
Artifacts are classified according to their material, function, and date. This involves comparing them with reference collections and published sources, as well as using expert judgment. A detailed description is then prepared, which includes information on the artifact's shape, size, color, surface treatment, and any decorative or functional features.
3. **Measurement and Recording** #
Artifacts are measured and recorded in a standardized format, which typically includes information on their dimensions, weight, and condition. This information is usually entered into a database or spreadsheet, along with the classification and description data.
4. **Analysis and Interpretation** #
The recorded data is analyzed to identify patterns, trends, and relationships between the artifacts and the site. This may involve statistical analysis, typological analysis, or other quantitative or qualitative methods. The results of the analysis are then interpreted in light of the archaeological and historical context, and used to develop hypotheses or theories about the site and its inhabitants.
Finds recording and analysis can be challenging, particularly when dealing with… #
It requires a thorough understanding of archaeological theory and method, as well as expertise in specific material types and periods. However, it is also a rewarding and exciting process, as it offers the opportunity to make new discoveries and contribute to our understanding of the past.
**Example** #
During the excavation of a Roman villa in England, a large number of pottery sherds were recovered. The pottery was cleaned, conserved, and classified according to its fabric, form, and function. A detailed description was prepared for each sherd, including information on its shape, size, color, and decoration. The sherds were then measured and recorded in a database, which included information on their context, date, and condition. The recorded data was analyzed to identify patterns in the pottery assemblage, such as shifts in vessel forms or decorative styles over time. The results of the analysis were then interpreted in light of the broader archaeological and historical context, and used to develop hypotheses about the villa's occupants and their lifeways.
**Practical Applications** #
Finds recording and analysis is essential for reconstructing the material culture of past societies and understanding their technological, economic, and social practices. It can also provide important evidence for dating sites and events, as well as for tracing cultural contacts and exchanges. Moreover, it can contribute to the identification and protection of heritage resources, as well as to the development of public education and outreach programs.
**Challenges** #
Finds recording and analysis can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, particularly when dealing with large or complex assemblages. It also requires specialized knowledge and skills, as well as access to reference collections and published sources. Furthermore, the interpretation of finds data can be subjective and controversial, and may require careful consideration of alternative hypotheses and interpretations.
* **Archaeological Context** #
The archaeological context refers to the physical and spatial relationships between artifacts and other features within an archaeological site. Understanding the context is crucial for interpreting the significance of artifacts and for reconstructing past activities and behaviors.
* **Documentation** #
Documentation refers to the process of recording and preserving information about an archaeological site or artifact. This can include written records, drawings, photographs, maps, and other forms of media. Documentation is essential for ensuring the long-term preservation and accessibility of archaeological data.
* **Post #
Excavation Analysis**: Post-excavation analysis refers to the process of interpreting and making sense of the data collected during excavation. This can involve a range of methods and techniques, including finds recording and analysis, spatial analysis, and statistical analysis. The goal of post-excavation analysis is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the site and its significance within the broader archaeological and historical context.
**Further Reading**: #
**Further Reading**:
* Orton, C #
, Tyers, P., & Vince, A. (1993). Pottery in Archaeology. Cambridge University Press.
* Roskams, S #
(2001). Excavation. Cambridge University Press.
* Schiffer, M #
B. (1987). Formation Processes of the Archaeological Record. University of New Mexico Press.
* Smith, M. (2017). Archaeological Theory #
An Introduction. Sage Publications.
* Wilson, D #
, & Grattan, D. (2016). Illustrated Dictionary of Practical Archaeology. Routledge.