An Archaeologist's Guide to Organic Residues in Pottery

Organic residue analysis is a technical specialty that combines archaeology and instrumental organic chemistry to reveal what people ate, how different vessels were used, and whether "elite" vessels were in use. Eleanora A. Rebers' An Archaeologists Guide to Organic Residues in Pottery is a user-friendly resource that offers a case study approach to explain the methods and application of organic residue analysis, with useful aspects such as compound-specific isotope analysis and sampling and construction of meaning.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 02 August 2022
Publisher: The University of Alabama Press

Pottery analysis is a vital part of archaeological excavation, as it provides insights into the diet, cooking practices, and social hierarchy of ancient societies. Organic residues found in pottery can reveal a wide range of information, including the types of plants and animals consumed, the vessel types used for cooking and serving, and even the presence of "elite" vessels.

Organic residue analysis is a complex and specialized field that combines instrumental organic chemistry and archaeology. Due to its obscurity, archaeologists of all levels of experience often struggle with how to apply the technology to archaeological questions and how to effectively sample in the field.

Eleanora A. Rebers' book, "An Archaeologists Guide to Organic Residues in Pottery," is a valuable resource for all archaeologists. It offers a case study approach to explain the methods and application of organic residue analysis. The case studies, drawn from Rebers' extensive archaeological research, cover a wide range of residues encountered in the field, including compounds such as maize, marine resources, conifer resins, and psychoactive alkaloid biomarkers like caffeine and nicotine.

Special attention is given to sampling and construction of meaning, as well as research questions, to help field archaeologists integrate residue analysis seamlessly into their projects. By understanding the techniques and applications of organic residue analysis, archaeologists can gain a deeper understanding of ancient societies and their interactions with the environment.

In conclusion, organic residue analysis is a powerful tool for archaeologists to uncover the secrets of ancient societies. By understanding the techniques and applications of this specialized field, archaeologists can gain a deeper understanding of the past and contribute to our knowledge of human history and culture.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780817321222