X-Rays and Ancient Economies: Comparative Case Studies and Future Prospects
Wed
8
Nov
Wednesday 8 November, 2023at 10:30 - 12:00
SAM.G.509
The Research Seminar Series in Archaeology and Environmental archaeology invites you to a seminar with Dr. Mikael Fauvelle, Lund University, "X-Rays and Ancient Economies: Comparative Case Studies and Future Prospects". Learn more aboute Dr. Fauvelle
Abstract
New scientific methods including portable X-Ray florescence and Synchrotron XRF have become important tools for archaeologists interested in analyzing ancient materials. As these approaches become increasingly common, it is also important that we connect the data we gather on material chemistry with archaeological and anthropological models of ancient human societies. In this presentation I will discuss a range of case studies from my recent work in which I use X-Ray approaches to map ancient economic systems. These case studies range in scale from tracing soapstone traded by maritime hunter-gatherers to mapping obsidian exchange between ancient Mesoamerican states and empires. All case studies are combined by the use of X-Rays to study ancient economic practices on regional and geopolitical scales. I will finish the presentation with a discussion of future possibilities for research in synchrotron and neutron applications to archaeology through our new Heritage Science theme at the Lund Institute of Advanced Neutron and X-Ray Science (LINXS).
The Research Seminar Series in Archaeology and Environmental Archaeology presents and discusses current research in archaeology and environmental archaeology. See more upcoming seminars in the series
