The aim of
the papers presented here is to explain the actual role of archaeochemistry in
the large field of archaeology.
Simply
said, archaeochemistry is the combination of archaeology with chemistry. Many people
think that the role of chemistry is only that of analyzing samples taken from
finds.
Archaeochemistry as part of Archaeometry
Archaeometry
covers the whole field of combinations between archaeology and natural sciences
including engineering sciences. Other branches of archaeometry according to
this definition are archaeometallurgy, archaeomining, astroarchaeology,
anthropology, archaeophysics, archaeomedicine, archaeobotany, archaeozoology,
industrial archaeology and others. Be always aware that there are no sharp
dividing lines between these areas of work.
A very
special but related field is that of experimental archaeology. This technique
tries to explain archaeological finds of all kinds, e. g. things like weapons,
textiles, tools, vessels, boats, etc., also houses, gates, fortifications, by
reproducing them. Old processes are investigated by means of making replicas
and working with them.
Limited knowledge of archaeologists must lead
to interdisciplinary work
Up to a
certain degree, depending on the special education or knowledge of the
archaeologist, he will be able to handle the special requirements but for sure
he will reach sooner or later his limits. This is the latest point to start
with interdisciplinary activities. Work together with a specialist in the other
discipline will open a wide field of new ideas, interpretations and
possibilities for further investigations. It will prohibit embarrassing
mistakes in the respective publications. The well-versed reader will identify
them easily.
It is of
basic importance for interdisciplinary work that the partners are not only
interested in the respective other discipline, but also understand the specific
expressions, the specific language and are ready for fair cooperation. The best
qualification for archaeochemical work is to have studied both subjects,
archaeology and chemistry – but in practice this will be an exception.
Archaeochemistry is more than analyzing samples
of archaeological finds
The object is
rather to investigate and interprete all kinds of archaeological finds which
seem to have some aspect of chemistry or chemical technology by means of
general chemical knowledge, knowledge of chemical engineering and knowledge of
material science. An archaeochemist deals with processes, objects, technical
installations, equipment and buildings.
This site gives some examples of
archaeochemical work, done by the author.