Objects: Reluctant Witnesses to the Past

by Chris Caple

An invaluable field textbook, "Objects: Reluctant Witnesses to the Past "examines nine detailed case studies to provide a brilliantly clear and comprehensible guide to the different methods and approaches (cultural, forensic, and technical) which can and have been used to study ancient artefacts.; From the Bayeaux Tapestry, to small medieval brass pins, Chris Caple's integral text deals with a full range of materials, from medieval wooden doors to Saxon jewellery, and clearly and simply explains key scientific techniques, technology, anthropological jargon and historical approaches.; Key demonstrations include: * how information from objects builds into a picture of the ancient society that made and used it * the commonly used scientific techniques for object analysis * how and why object typologies work * how cultural and economic factors as well as the material properties influences what objects are made of * how simple observation of an object can build its biography.; Revealing answers to crucial questions such as: Can DNA be obtained from objects? Why do people x-ray ancient artefacts? Can you determine the source of metal objects from their trace elements?, "Objects: Reluctant Witnesses to the Past" is an absolutely essential text for students of archaeology, museum studies, and conservation.

Genres: Archaeology, Nonfiction, History

Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 2006