| 1. |
- Alonso-Eguiluz, Mónica, et al.
(författare)
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The Early Upper paleolithic deposit of Mughr el-Hamamah (Jordan): Archaeobotanical taphonomy and site formation processes
- 2024
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 55, s. 104471-104471
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- With a rich, well-dated Early Upper Palaeolithic layer, the Mughr el-Hamamah cave site is key for understanding the Middle-Upper Palaeolithic transition in the Levant. The archaeological deposit consists of two units. Layer A resulted from pastoral activities during the 20th century and Layer B dated between 44.5 and 40.0 ky BP. During Layer A’s formation, shepherds disturbed Layer B, redepositing Early Upper Palaeolithic sediments and lithic artefacts in Layer A matrix. Activity from Layer A’s formation also resulted in spatially patchy percolation and bioturbation, leaving microarchaeological traces such as dung spherulites in some areas in Layer B. In contrast, contemporaneous chemical diagenetic processes from Layer B’s primary formation caused spatially uneven post-depositional dissolution of animal bone. In this article we present a multi-proxy microarchaeological approach to investigate the post-depositional processes in Layer B, focussing on possible impacts on the plant archaeological record. The identification of intrusive spherulites from shepherds’ activities define the limits of disturbance in Layer B. Micromorphological analyses have identified four intact micro-facies in Layer B, representing an interplay of natural and anthropogenic factors. Micromorphological details in bedded combustion features favour the interpretation that associated phytoliths represent fuel traces. Dicot fruit phytoliths occur in the western area of the cave, where well-preserved charred wood and seeds were also found. Grass-diagnostic phytoliths correspond to C3 and C4 taxa, indicating an overall humid environment with dry spells. Microarchaeological analysis identifies traces of both bedded and dispersed hearth materials, mixed with variable plant resources for food, fuel, and possibly other uses. This strengthens the interpretation of Mughr el-Hamamah Layer B as a dense, complicated palimpsest of recurring activities, formed over many millennia.
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| 2. |
- Bindler, Richard, et al.
(författare)
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Copper-ore mining in Sweden since the pre-Roman Iron Age : lake-sediment evidence of human activities at the Garpenberg ore field since 375 BCE
- 2017
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 12, s. 99-108
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Historical documents, archaeological evidence and lake-sediment records indicate thus far that significant mining of iron and copper ores in the Berglsagen mining region in central Sweden did not begin until the late 12th century -first with iron in Norberg - and thereafter spreading rapidly throughout the region during the 13th century when also copper was included (e.g. Falun). Prior to this, iron was produced domestically from secondary sources such as bog iron, while geochemical analyses of bronze artefacts indicate copper was imported. The parish of Garpenberg was at the intersection between historical iron-and copper-mining districts, and consequently we expected our sediment record from the lake Gruvsjon ('mine lake') to follow the established 13th century development. However, a 2-3-fold enrichment in copper and lead occurred already during 375-175 BCE (pre-Roman Iron Age), together with small increases in zinc, magnesium and charcoal particles, and changes in pollen. Together these indicate a clear pattern of human disturbance connected with the ore body bordering the lake. A second distinct phase occurred 115-275 CE, but with an 8-9-fold increase in copper and lead along with other indicators. From 400 CE a permanent increase in copper and lead occurred, which then accelerated from the 13th century as seen elsewhere in the region. Our results push back the evidence for early ore mining in Sweden from the Middle Ages to the pre-Roman Iron Age.
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| 3. |
- Blaschikoff, Ludmilla, et al.
(författare)
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A multidisciplinary study of Iberian Chalcolithic dogs
- 2022
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 42
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Domesticated dogs have been present in the Iberian Peninsula long before other domesticated species, back to the late Palaeolithic period. Their origin is still uncertain, but dogs were already well established during the Chalcolithic period (ca. 5000-4000 BP). This study employed a multidisciplinary approach comprising osteometric, radiographic and palaeogenomic analyses to characterize Chalcolithic Iberian Canis remains. Two Chalcolithic archaeological sites - Leceia, Oeiras, in Portugal, and El Caset ' on de la Era, Villalba de los Alcores, Valladolid, in Spain - were the main focus of this study. Osteometric and odontometric data from eleven other sites in Iberia were also included. Osteometric results show signs of phenotypic variability, likely the result of human-driven selective pressure. Dental radiographic and dental wear analyses allowed age at death estimation for four individuals (two juvenile and two adults). Three Chalcolithic Iberian dogs had their mitogenomes resequenced and the mitochondrial DNA analysis allowed to assign each individual to two of the major known haplogroups - A and C. Molecular sex infered by the chromosomeX/chromosome1 coverage ratio allowed to identify one female and two males. This study unveils some aspects of the Iberian Chalcolithic dogs: these dogs already exhibited various morphotypes whose profiles might be associated to the performance of certain tasks, as well as mitogenomes of two distinct lineages that help tracking the evolutionary paths of Iberian dogs.
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| 4. |
- Boethius, Adam, et al.
(författare)
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The importance of freshwater fish in Early Holocene subsistence : Exemplified with the human colonization of the island of Gotland in the Baltic basin
- 2017
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 13, s. 625-634
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this paper we explore the subsistence economy of the Mesolithic pioneers on the island of Gotland in the Baltic basin, in order to evaluate the importance of freshwater fish to the Early Holocene human population. By analysing faunal remains, the distribution of 14C dates and the location of the settlement sites, we argue that earlier assumptions concerning the importance of marine mammals to the early human populations should be reconsidered. We suggest that the pioneering settlers of Gotland relied on fish to a significant extent. Radiocarbon dates taken from human bones are skewed by a freshwater reservoir effect, which can be used as an indirect indication of the significance of freshwater fish. The numerous, overgrowing lakes on the island, with their extensive biomass production and large amounts of freshwater fish, provided an important subsistence base. Even if the faunal assemblages that have survived are dominated by seal bones, the hunting season for seals was limited and the hunters mostly targeted young seals. Thus, the importance of seal have previously been overestimated and it appears that the human use of marine resources on Gotland was more limited and related to raw material needs rather than dietary necessity or specialization. Although presented as a case study; the results highlight the need to identify a freshwater fish diet among ancient foragers on a larger scale, as implications thereof can fundamentally change how foraging societies are perceived.
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| 5. |
- Bornfalk Back, Anders, 1985-
(författare)
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The vitrified wall of Broborg hillfort in Uppland, Sweden – A comment on Sjöblom et al. (2022)
- 2023
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 48
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Recently, Sjöblom et al. assessed the cause of the vitrified wall of Broborg, the 5th century CE hillfort in East Middle Sweden. By exploring possible incentives and competence to melt stones together, as well as the genesis of the vitrified material, the authors suggested that the builders of Broborg used vitrification as a construction method to strengthen the wall. In this comment, I critically examine the line of arguments presented in support of this claim. The conclusion reached is that there is no convincing evidence to warrant a construction hypothesis.
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| 6. |
- Brødholt, Elin T., et al.
(författare)
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Bone mineral density through history : Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in archaeological populations of Norway
- 2021
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 36
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Information regarding bone mineral density (BMD) and related variations through prehistoric and historic time periods in Norway is scarce. We present results of BMD measurements of 222 individuals from four rural and urban burial sites representing the medieval and post-Reformation period using osteological analysis and dualenergy X-ray absorptiometry. Existing BMD data from 137 individuals dating to the Late Iron Age and medieval period were incorporated. Young medieval females have the highest mean BMD of all time periods, including the modern female population, and significant higher mean BMD than young females from the Late Iron Age (p = 0.02; q = 0.093). Mean BMD increased significantly from the Late Iron Age to the medieval period (p = 0.0002) followed by a significant decline from the medieval to the post-Reformation period (p = 0.014). The overall results reveal significant BMD variation through prehistoric and historic time periods in Norway. The patterns of age-related bone loss observed in the archaeological record are diverse with substantial temporal changes suggesting a transition towards a modern pattern. The bone loss often exceeds that observed in the population today. This study sheds light on long-term historical trends and patterns in Norway by examining BMD variation and age-related bone loss in adult life of males and females within three archaeological time periods and compared to present populations.
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| 7. |
- Budd, Chelsea, et al.
(författare)
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Early Farmers in northwest Turkey: First dietary isotopes study of human diet at Neolithic Barcın Höyük
- 2020
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 31
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Barcın Höyük is one of the oldest Neolithic settlement sites in northwest Anatolia, with early layers of occupation radiocarbon dated to ca.6600 cal BC. The Neolithic phase at the site (ca.6600 – 6200 cal BC) has seven layers of occupation, and shows a number of affinities, in terms of structure and zooarchaeological remains, with contemporary sites in the coastal area near Istanbul (Özdoğan, 2013). The available zooarchaeological evidence suggests a diet of terrestrial fauna, with some inclusion from freshwater aquatic species. This study investigates the nature of human diet at Barcın Höyük through carbon and nitrogen analysis of human and animal bone collagen, and examines whether there is any isotopic evidence for a shift in diet after the re-organisation of the site at ca.6200 cal BC. Here we present 75 human and faunal analyses from the Neolithic layers at Barcın Höyük. Two new radiocarbon dates on human skeletons are also included in the study.
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| 8. |
- Charpentier Ljungqvist, Fredrik, 1982-, et al.
(författare)
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The spatiotemporal distribution of Late Viking Age Swedish runestones : A reflection of the Christianisation process and its speed
- 2018
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 21, s. 849-861
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The Late Viking Age Swedish runestones are commonly acknowledged as early Christian monuments. Using geostatistical techniques and descriptive statistics, we systematically investigate the regional-to-local spatiotemporal patterns of 1302 ornamentally dated Swedish runestones regarding the timing and speed of the Christianisation process. After quantitative geostatistical analyses of the age distribution patterns of Swedish runestones, we evaluate whether the observed patterns correspond to the pace and pattern of Christianisation, as represented by the presence of mission bishoprics, early church sites, late pagan grave sites and royal estates. We identify seven distinct age groups of runestones and statistically significant regional-to-local spatiotemporal differences in the age and age spread of runestones. The oldest runestones, with the smallest age spread, are found in south-western medieval Sweden, and the youngest, as well as the largest age spread, in the north-east, respectively. We find that runestones are significantly older close to early ecclesiastical sites, regardless of the analytical level, and significantly younger near to late pagan graves. The results obtained are inconclusive as to whether runestones are older near royal estates. Our results support that the spatiotemporal patterns of runestone sites mirror the timing of the Christianisation process and that geostatistical approaches to larger archaeological or historical data sets can add new dimensions to the understanding of the spatial dimensions of past societal changes.
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| 9. |
- Eriksson, Gunilla, et al.
(författare)
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Diet and mobility among Mesolithic hunter-gatherers in Motala (Sweden) - The isotope perspective
- 2018
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 17, s. 904-918
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Recent excavations at the sites of Strandvägen and Kanaljorden in Motala, Eastern Central Sweden, have unearthed complex and varied funerary remains from the Mesolithic. The two sites are situated on opposite banks of the river Motala Ström. While geographically close and roughly covering the same time span (c. 8000–7000 cal. BP), the funerary remains reveal differences and similarities in the treatment of the dead between the two localities. While at Strandvägen human bones were mostly found either scattered along the river bed or in inhumation graves, Kanaljorden contains wetland depositions of disarticulated skulls. We have conducted multi-isotope analyses of δ13C, δ15N, δ34S and 87Sr/86Sr of human and animal remains with the aim of reconstructing the dietary patterns, geographic provenance and mobility of the interred. A series of faunal reference samples and, in the case of 87Sr/86Sr, soil samples have been analysed in order to establish relevant isotopic baselines. The results show a protein intake dominated by aquatic resources, probably consisting of both freshwater and marine fish in varied proportions. The strontium isotope data indicate an interesting distinction between the individuals buried on either side of the river Motala Ström. Five out of six sampled individuals from Strandvägen have isotope ratios consistent with a local provenance, whereas ratios from seven out of eight Kanaljorden individuals indicate a non-local origin. The δ34S analysis proved problematic as a majority of the samples appear to be affected by diagenesis. This is probably the result of contamination by exogenous sulphur from surrounding fluvial and lacustrine sediments, as has previously been reported from other waterlogged sites.
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| 10. |
- Etu-Sihvola, H., et al.
(författare)
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The dIANA database - Resource for isotopic paleodietary research in the Baltic Sea area
- 2019
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 24, s. 1003-1013
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Paleodietary research is a complex field, which requires large sets of background information. Owing to increasing interest and activity in the field, a substantial amount of archaeological isotope baseline data exist for Northern Europe, consisting mainly of animal bone collagen delta C-13, delta N-15, and delta S-34 values. However, the data are scattered into dozens of publications written in multiple languages and less-accessible formats, making the data laborious to use. This article presents the first compilation work of this data, the open access dIANA database (Dietary Isotopic baseline for the Ancient North; https://www.oasisnorth.org/diana.html), aimed to support (paleo)dietary research in the Baltic Sea area. The database work is complemented with new analyses of archaeological and (pre-)modern domestic and wild fauna from Finland and Russia broadening the selection of analysed species in the database. We present and discuss data examples, which on one hand show existing spatiotemporal isotope patterns related to diet and differences in the environmental carbon sources and on the other, also visualize the current status of baseline research and the need for further analyses in the circum-Baltic area.
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| 11. |
- Fischer, Peter M.
(författare)
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Interregional trade at Hala Sultan Tekke, Cyprus: Analysis and chronology of imports
- 2023
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 47, s. 1-16
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper presents the results from extensive and intensive field work at Hala Sultan Tekke, Cyprus, supported by scientific analyses. They shed light on the scope of interregional trade in which this Late Bronze Age harbour city participated from the 15th to the 12th centuries B.C. Although the results from older excavations suggested the city’s engagement in interregional trade, these preliminary conclusions were based on chronologically and geographically restricted material and only a few scientific analyses, which have since been complemented and partly revised. It is now clear that long-distance exchange, based on the large-scale intra-urban production and distribution of copper, involved regional and more distant suppliers of coveted goods, and resulted in the transition of the settlement from a late 17th century B.C. village to a trade hub with a minimum extent of 25 ha.
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| 12. |
- Fors, Yvonne, 1975, et al.
(författare)
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GCMS analyses of direct methylated lipids in binders used in 18th–19th century folk painted interiors in Hälsingland, Sweden
- 2019
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 23, s. 127-136
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Paint fragments were collected from painted 18th and 19th century interiors from traditional buildings in Hälsingland, Sweden. The aim was to identify binders used by the artists by direct-methylation and GCMS analyses of the lipid fraction in the samples. The lipid content was categorized as mainly animal, plant-based or mixed. The study indicates that used colour tone and possibly also underlying foundation (wood, paper or textile) is essential for the artists´ choice of binder components. Animal-lipid based compounds were found to be used for a wide variety of colours, including mixed colour and several light colour tones. Animal and sometimes mixed lipids seem also to be characteristic for colour fragments from paper and textiles. Red, black and blue colours are quite common among the mixed-lipid category. However, half of blue, green and black colours were found in the vegetable lipid group. A tendency towards the plant-lipids was also indicated in colour samples painted on wood. Many different forms of terpenoids were found among the wood samples, suggesting that its origin can be traced mainly to wood composites, such as extractives. © 2018 Elsevier Ltd
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| 13. |
- Fraser, Magdalena, et al.
(författare)
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New insights on cultural dualism and population structure in the Middle Neolithic Funnel Beaker culture on the island of Gotland
- 2018
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 17, s. 325-334
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In recent years it has been shown that the Neolithization of Europe was partly driven by migration of farming groups admixing with local hunter-gatherer groups as they dispersed across the continent. However, little research has been done on the cultural duality of contemporaneous foragers and farming populations in the same region. Here we investigate the demographic history of the Funnel Beaker culture [Trichterbecherkultur or TRB, c. 4000–2800 cal BCE], and the sub-Neolithic Pitted Ware culture complex [PWC, c. 3300–2300 cal BCE] during the Nordic Middle Neolithic period on the island of Gotland, Sweden. We use a multidisciplinary approach to investigate individuals buried in the Ansarve dolmen, the only confirmed TRB burial on the island. We present new radiocarbon dating, isotopic analyses for diet and mobility, and mitochondrial DNA haplogroup data to infer maternal inheritance. We also present a new Sr-baseline of 0.71208 ± 0.0016 for the local isotope variation. We compare and discuss our findings together with that of contemporaneous populations in Sweden and the North European mainland.The radiocarbon dating and Strontium isotopic ratios show that the dolmen was used between c. 3300–2700 cal BCE by a population which displayed local Sr-signals. Mitochondrial data show that the individuals buried in the Ansarve dolmen had maternal genetic affinity to that of other Early and Middle Neolithic farming cultures in Europe, distinct from that of the contemporaneous PWC on the island. Furthermore, they exhibited a strict terrestrial and/or slightly varied diet in contrast to the strict marine diet of the PWC. The findings indicate that two different contemporary groups coexisted on the same island for several hundred years with separate cultural identity, lifestyles, as well as dietary patterns.
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| 14. |
- Fraser, Magdalena, et al.
(författare)
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The stone cist conundrum : A multidisciplinary approach to investigate Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age population demography on the island of Gotland
- 2018
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 20, s. 324-337
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The Late Neolithic period in Scandinavia [LN, c. 2350-1700 cal BCE] marks a time of considerable changes in settlement patterns, economy, and material culture. This shift also lays the foundation for the demographic developments in the Early Bronze Age [EBA, c. 1700-1100 cal BCE]. However, little is presently known regarding the developments from these time-periods on the island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea. During the Middle Neolithic period [MN, c. 3300-2350 cal BCE], Gotland was inhabited by groups associated with the Funnel Beaker culture [TRB, c. 4000-2700 cal BCE], and the sub-Neolithic Pitted Ware culture [PWC, c. 3300-2300 cal BCE]. Some indications of connections with the Bathe Axe/Corded Ware cultures [BAC/CWC, c. 2800-2300 cal BCE] have also been found, but no typical BAC/CWC burials have been located on the island to date. Here, we investigate the chronological and internal relationship of twenty-three individuals buried in four LN/EBA stone cist burials; Haffinds, Hagur, Suderkvie, and Utalskog on Gotland. We present eleven mitochondrial genomes [from 23 X to 1271 X coverage], and twenty-three new radiocarbon dates, as well as stable isotope data for diet. We examine the local Sr-baseline range for Gotland, and present new Sr-data to discuss mobility patterns of the individuals. The genetic results are compared and discussed in light of earlier cultural periods from Gotland [TRB and PWC], and CWC from the European continent, as well as contemporaneous LN secondary burials in the MN Ansarve dolmen. We find that all burials were used into the EBA, but only two of the cists showed activity already during the LN. We also see some mobility to Gotland during the LN/EBA period based on Strontium and mitochondrial data. We see a shift in the dietary pattern compared to the preceding period on the island [TRB and PWC], and the two LN individuals from the Ansarve dolmen exhibited different dietary and mobility patterns compared to the individuals from the LN/EBA stone cist burials. We find that most of the cist burials were used by individuals local to the area of the burials, with the exception of the large LN/EBA Haffinds cist burial which showed higher levels of mobility. Our modeling of ancestral mitochondrial contribution from chronologically older individuals recovered in the cultural contexts of TRB, PWC and CWC show that the best model is a 55/45 mix of CWC and TRB individuals. A 3-way model with a slight influx from PWC [5%] also had a good fit. This is difficult to reconcile with the current archaeological evidence on the island. We suggest that the maternal CWC/TRB contribution we see in the local LN/EBA individuals derives from migrants after the Scandinavian MN period, which possible also admixed with smaller local groups connected with the PWC. Further genomic analyses of these groups on Gotland will help to clarify the demographic history during the MN to EBA time periods.
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| 15. |
- Fraser, Sheena, et al.
(författare)
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Matrilines in Neolithic cattle from Orkney, Scotland reveals complex husbandry patterns of ancestry
- 2017
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 14, s. 46-54
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- mtDNA, isotopic and archaeozoological analyses of cattle teeth and bones from the Late Neolithic site of Links of Noltland, Orkney, Scotland revealed these animals followed similar grazing regimes but displayed diverse genetic origins and included one cattle skull that carried an aurochs (wild cattle) genetic haplotype. Morphometric analyses indicate the presence of some cattle larger than published dimensions of Neolithic domestic cattle. Several explanations for these finding are possible but may be the evidence of a complex pattern of domestic cattle introductions into Neolithic Orkney and interbreeding between domestic and wild cattle.
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| 16. |
- Fägerström, Christoffer, et al.
(författare)
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Insects and other invertebrate remains from the coffin of a 17th century bishop in Lund Minster, S Sweden
- 2020
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 31
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- An extraordinarily diverse and well-preserved material, including the remains of 47 insect taxa and 12 taxa of other invertebrates, extracted from the 17th century burial of Bishop Peder Winstrup in Lund Minster, is presented and discussed in terms of the treatment of the body, activities connected with the burial and faunal significance. The invertebrate assemblages include species from gardens, insects feeding on living plants as well as dried or decaying plant matter. Many of the species are regarded as closely associated with humans (synanthropic), and a number of these are associated with outbuildings, such as stables and cellars. The absence of species associated with cadavers (necrophilous taxa) in the studied insect material is significant. The most plausible explanation is that the bishop died, and was buried during the winter, when such species are inactive, and thus precluded from colonising the body. A number of species were recorded which are today rare or very rare in southern Sweden. This is a strong indication that they once were more common and widespread, perhaps due to a greater prevalence of their preferred habitats. Sweden’s earliest fossil bedbug is also amongst the finds.
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| 17. |
- Glykou, Aikaterini, et al.
(författare)
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Strontium isotope analysis in prehistoric cod otoliths by laser ablation multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
- 2021
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science-Reports. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 37
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Exploitation of aquatic resources, especially fishing, was a fundamental part of human subsistence during the Late Mesolithic Ertebolle culture (5400-4000/3900 cal BC) in Southern Scandinavia. In this pilot study we examine three cod otoliths from two Late Mesolithic locations in eastern Denmark to see whether local environmental conditions are reflected in the strontium ratios of the fish, to source the fish to either the Atlantic or the Baltic Sea and finally, to explore how fishing was conducted in relation to the settlements. We used laser ablation multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for sequential sampling of the otoliths for strontium isotope analysis. All three otoliths yielded Sr-87/Sr-86 values that fall within the range of Baltic Sea water, thus indicating that cod caught by Mesolithic fishers in the Danish straits belonged to the Baltic Sea stock. Our results suggest that cod were not caught in waters immediately adjacent to the archaeological sites but rather came from the Kattegat. We could not detect any substantial change in habitat between juvenile and mature stages of the fishs lives. Our study shows the potential of isotopic analysis to address issues regarding the individual ecological history of fish and human fishing strategies.
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| 18. |
- Grabowski, Radoslaw, et al.
(författare)
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The use of space on two Early Iron Age house sites in South-West Jutland, South Scandinavia : A geoarchaeological multiproxy approach
- 2022
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 42
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper describes analyses for understanding the general use of space on two Early Iron Age house sites on the site of Sønderris in South-West Jutland (South Scandinavia). The main method consists of the geoarchaeological techniques of soil P analysis by citric acid extraction, low frequency magnetic susceptibility analysis, and measurement of the soils organic content by loss-on-ignition. The results of these analyses are, moreover, interpreted alongside artefact distribution data, data on the dispersal of plant macrofossils, and an evaluation of the architectural details of the sites.At both house sites, the geoarchaeological data shows patterning indicative of human activities. The main achievements are inference of outdoor areas which may have contained pyres or kilns, delineation of yard spaces with refuse deposition, and the characterisation of functional aspects of two small outbuildings. In general, the geoarchaeological results are consistent with the inferences attained from non-geoarchaeological sources. A notable exception is that few clear traces of stalling were identified in the geoarchaeological record, despite the presence of animal booth partition walls indicating the presence of byres in the longhouses. Possible reasons for this are discussed.Overall, this study demonstrates the continued usefulness of long-established geoarchaeological methods for gaining insights about the nature, extent, and orientation of activities on prehistoric house sites. A key take-away from the study is that the potential of any individual method for reading activities (geoarchaeological or otherwise), increases when several techniques with overlapping, but not identical, scope for inferring activities are integrated. The resulting multiproxy analysis is, as a whole, more useful than the sum of its constituent parts.
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| 19. |
- Gummesson, Sara, 1984-
(författare)
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Depositional patterns at Åloppe, norrskog- an attempt to contextualize taphonomy on a 20th century excavation
- 2024
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 53
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The Pitted Ware Culture site Åloppe, Norrskog in Eastern Middle Sweden, is one of few Neolithic settlements in the region where unburnt osteological remains have been recovered. The geology of this area of Sweden with mainly acidic soils does not generally preserve unburned bones well but the osteological material from the site is well preserved in comparison to many other sites in the region. Thus, Åloppe, Norrskog offers an exceptional opportunity to study the deposition of osteoarchaeological material and to investigate spatial practices. This is evident in the faunal remains which comprise bones of seals and fish, and in addition, bones of terrestrial mammals such as boar and moose, that were handled differently on the site. The spatial distribution of mammal remains revealed depositional patterns associated with specific areas, archaeological features and, thus, human activities. One inhumation burial was excavated at the site and several isolated human bones were recovered among the faunal remains. Taphonomic observations and spatial distribution suggest intentional handling and deposition of human remains within a more restricted area of the site. Despite the low spatial resolution offered by the material patterns do emerge and the site may be understood as an arena for human action.
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| 20. |
- Gummesson, Sara, et al.
(författare)
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Taphonomy, bone surface characteristics and assemblage history : Finding Mesolithic bone depositions at Strandvägen, Motala
- 2017
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 13, s. 11-25
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Through taphonomic analyses, in this studywe evaluate bones surface characteristics and differences in bone accumulation on a Mesolithic settlement site, in Eastern Middle Sweden. The assemblage consists of faunal remains fromthe Mesolithic but also fromactivities dating to historical periods. All bones fromthe site, including indeterminate fragments, were analysed. Variation in bones surface characteristics were registered according to a set of taphonomic data, based on previously published studies. The variation were categorized as different texture scores and evaluated against species representation, radiocarbon datings and spatial distribution. The study underlines the potential of methodological approaches to taphonomic data and underlines the importance of including indeterminate fragments when studying human utilization of bones. The results present strong correlations between different species, bone tools and specific surface textures. It shows that a large part of the assemblage is of Mesolithic origin but also that activities dating to post-Mesolithic periods have contributed to the assemblage accumulation. Spatial analyses of the different surface textures helped to identify and separate Mesolithic activity areas of the site, thus providing an understanding of the spatial organization at intra site level, at the settlement of Strandvägen.
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| 21. |
- Harris, Alison J. T., 1982-, et al.
(författare)
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Diversity in Labrador Inuit sled dog diets : Insights from δ13C and δ15N analysis of dog bone and dentine collagen
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 32
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Sled dogs were an integral part of Labrador Inuit life from the initial expansion and settlement of northeastern Canada to the present day. Tasked with pulling sleds and assisting people with other subsistence activities in the winter, dogs required regular provisioning with protein and fat. In this paper, we conduct stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratio analysis of the skeletal remains of dogs (n=35) and wild fauna (n=68) from sites located on the north and south coasts of Labrador to characterize dog provisioning between the 15th to early 19th centuries. In addition, we analyse bone (n=20) and dentine (n=4) collagen from dogs from Double Mer Point, a communal house site in Hamilton Inlet to investigate how dog diets intersected with Inuit subsistence and trade activities at a local level. We find that dog diets were largely composed of marine mammal protein, but that dogs on the north coast consumed more caribou and fish relative to dogs from the central and south coast sites. The diets of dogs from Double Mer Point were the most heterogenous of any site, suggesting long-distance movement of people and/or animals along the coast.
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| 22. |
- Hein, Anke, et al.
(författare)
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Ceramic production in prehistoric northwest China : Preliminary findings of new analyses of old material from the Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, Stockholm
- 2019
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 23, s. 104-115
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The Neolithic painted pottery of northwest China has long been admired for its high level of craftsmanship. Yet, little is known about the technological processes and potting communities behind these objects. At the same time, the wide variety of supposedly less beautiful Bronze Age wares is often disregarded and simply ascribed to the emergence of multiple new cultures. In both cases, the relationship between object appearance, technology, and cultural expectations is unexplored. The present paper presents the first results of a pilot study using a combination of scientific techniques to learn about traditions of ceramic production and their transformation over time and space in prehistoric northwest China. The basis of this study is finds excavated in the 1920s and held in the Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities in Stockholm. This collection has long lain dormant and their potential remains largely unexplored. This paper draws attention to the collection and at the same time shows the usefulness of combining thin-section petrography and portable X-ray fluorescence for this specific set of material and research questions. This analysis of a small sample already provides important insights. For instance, it shows continuity in criteria of raw material selection during the Neolithic but a radical break in tempering behavior at the transition from early to late Bronze Age. The study also identifies technical challenges as well as possibilities posed by the quality of the local raw material in conjunction with long-standing traditions of high-level local craftsmanship. All of these phenomena, so the paper shows, are best investigated with a combination of petrographic and chemical analyses on archaeological and geological samples viewed in a comparative perspective.
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| 23. |
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| 24. |
- Jerand, Philip, et al.
(författare)
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Spatial Perspectives on Hearth Row Site Organisation in Northern Fennoscandia Through the Analysis of Soil Phosphate Content
- 2016
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 5, s. 361-373
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The focus of this paper is to present new perspectives on the social and cultural aspects on spatial organisation of so called 'hearth rows' in Northern Fennoscandia. Previous studies have shown, based on geographical distribution and finds, that these sites are associated with native Sámi settlements and consist of linearly organised hearths dated to 800 - 1300 AD. In order to provide a deeper understanding of spatial behaviour and waste dispersal in hearth row settlements, information and data from three excavated sites is compiled, together with 14C analysis (bone and charcoal), detailed sampling and mapping of citric soluble soil phosphate, to enable a spatial analytical approach. On the basis of repeated spatial patterns observed in excavated and analysed data the authors provide new insights on the spatial organisation of these Sámi dwellings. Also, a generally accepted ethnographic model on how these dwellings and hearth areas were spatially organised is challenged.
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| 25. |
- Junno, Ari, et al.
(författare)
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Building a high-resolution chronology for northern Hokkaido - A case study of the Late Holocene Hamanaka 2 site on Rebun Island, Hokkaido (Japan)
- 2021
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 36
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Archaeological radiocarbon dating in coastal northern Hokkaido is challenged by the marine reservoir effect and the scarcity of materials with terrestrial carbon sources. This has contributed to gaps and general uncertainty in the timing of the region's culture-historical periods. The Late Holocene site of Hamanaka 2 on Rebun Island, featuring a stratified shell midden context with excellent preservation of organic remains, provides an ideal setting for addressing this issue. A Bayesian chronological model was deployed to study the timing of the site using a series of radiocarbon-dated macrobotanical samples. This resulted in narrowed-down estimated ageranges in eight of thirteen phases examined, providing the site with a more accurate radiocarbon chronology than before. These temporal data were consequently integrated with local palaeoecological evidence, revealing synchrony between cultural chronology and human-induced landscape transformations. The study demonstrates that the technique should permit more efficient building of archaeological chronologies in similar maritime environments.
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| 26. |
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| 27. |
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| 28. |
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| 29. |
- Kordatzaki, G., et al.
(författare)
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A diachronic investigation of 'local' pottery production and supply at the sanctuary of Zeus, Mount Lykaion, Arcadia, Peloponnese
- 2016
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 7, s. 526-529
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. The present paper reports results of an integrated study of a selection of pottery recovered from the altar of Zeus, Mount Lykaion, Arcadia, in the Peloponnese, Greece, dating from the Neolithic to the Early Iron Age. A multi-analytical approach based on petrographic and chemical analysis, supported by refiring tests and geological sampling, has been employed to tackle issues of technology and provenance. Results shed light on patterns of raw material sources exploitation and pottery production and supply at the site over time.
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| 30. |
- Krzewinska, Maja, et al.
(författare)
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Elucidating recent history by tracing genetic affinity of three 16th century miners from Sweden
- 2018
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 19, s. 651-657
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objectives: Sala Silver Mine in central Sweden was an important manufacturer of silver from at least the 16th till the early 20th century, with production peaking in the 16th, mid 17th and 19th centuries. The job opportunities offered by the mine attracted people to the area resulting in the development of a small township with an associated cemetery in the vicinity of the mining center. People affiliated to the mine were buried on the cemetery for around 150 years. Written sources reveal that common criminal convicts from Sweden-Finland and war prisoners from the numerous wars fought by Sweden during the time were exploited in the mine, and some of them were likely buried on the cemetery. The cemetery has been excavated on several occasions and the recovered human remains were divided into two different groups based on burial custom, demography and biochemical results. One group was believed to contain war prisoners; the aim of this study was to produce and interpret genomic data from these individuals to test if their genetic ancestry is consistent with the hypothesis that they were non-locals. Materials: Teeth from seven different individuals were sampled for dentine. Results: Three of the analyzed teeth contained sufficient amounts of endogenous human DNA for the generation of genomic sequence data to a coverage of 0.04, 0.19 and 0.83, respectively. Discussion: The results show that despite seeming heterogeneity the three individuals grouped within the range of genetic variation of modern and contemporary Swedes, yielding no statistical support to the hypothesis that they were foreign captives. However, due to the lack of contemporary or modern Danish genomic data we cannot refute these individuals originated in Denmark which was suggested as one of possible sources of the 17th century Swedish prisoners of war.
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| 31. |
- Krzewińska, Maja, et al.
(författare)
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Related in death? A curious case of a foetus hidden in bishop Peder Winstrup's coffin in Lund, Sweden
- 2021
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 37
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- When the famous bishop of Lund, Peder Winstrup, died in 1679 he was laid to rest in a family crypt in Lund Cathedral alongside his wife. Following a restoration of the Cathedral in the late 19th century, Peder Winstrup’s coffin was moved to the crypt, as the family grave was dismantled. In 2012, a decision was made to move his remains to a different location presenting scientists with an opportunity to investigate bishop’s mummified remains. Unexpectedly, hidden underneath Winstrup’s body, a small bundle containing mummified remains of a 5–6-month-old foetus was found. This finding prompted questions regarding the possible relation between both individuals with most hypotheses suggesting no relation and an opportunistic character of the placement of the foetus in bishop’s coffin. Here we test the hypotheses using ancient DNA genomics, including mitochondrial DNA and Y chromosome data, as tools for kinship analyses. We identified a second-degree kinship relation, which, in combination with genealogical analysis, suggests a grandparent-grandchild relation, as highly probable affiliation.
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| 32. |
- Lombard, Marlize, et al.
(författare)
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The foodplant fitness landscape of Hollow Rock Shelter, Western Cape,South Africa
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 49
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Studying Stone Age foraging behaviours in terms of plant foods is difficult because of reservation, sampling and identification biases. Current foodplant populations, knowledge about their use in recent times, and how they are distributed across the landscape, provide valuable middle-range proxies from which work on archaeological landscapes and material can benefit. With this contribution we provide foodplant lists for three different foraging ranges (radii of ∼ 12.5 km, ∼35 km, and ∼ 70 km) around Hollow Rock Shelter. By comparing data for each of the foraging ranges directly, we discuss proportional increases in foodplant resources when moving further away from the site. We demonstrate that the ∼ 35 km foraging range is the most efficient. This implies that people staying at the site (for shorter or longer periods) may have regularly employed a strategy of temporary camping for a night or two away from the site to forage especially preservable foods that could be brought to the site. Our data highlight potential plant-food staples, and show that under-surface storage organs (USOs) of plants, followed by fruit and leaves are the most abundant edible plant parts available on the Hollow Rock Shelter landscape within all three of the foraging ranges, and that most of these could be eaten raw.
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| 33. |
- Lundström, Fredrik, et al.
(författare)
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The harpoon stands yonder : Shape variation and functional constraints in Mesolithic complex weapon points from the circum-Baltic Sea area
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 51
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Mesolithic harpoons are structurally complex weapon points and significant sources of archaeological information. Nonetheless, separating different types of information inherent in harpoon point shapes (e.g., aspects relating to mechanical performance, personal or group craft variation and chronology) using descriptive approaches is difficult. In this study, we employed an exploratory geometric morphometric approach to the analysis of 28 Mesolithic harpoon points, and 144 undated harpoon points from the circum-Baltic Sea area in order to retrieve both functional and spatiotemporal information. By analyzing harpoon structure statistically through (i.) a shape proxy (harpoon silhouette) and (ii.) harpoon sub-structures (barbs), we have been able to reveal information related to both variation in shape convention and functional constraints. Barb shape results revealed statistically significant chronological and geographical groupings with spatiotemporal barb-shape trajectories made visible and objective evaluation of how barb-shape conventions impacted functional variation. In addition, harpoon silhouette shape distributions were shown to have potential as sources for robust artifact classifications in relation to functional constraints and raw-material engagement. These results suggest that morphometric approaches similar to the ones we have employed offer promising ways of addressing specific archaeological questions in the context of harpoon point shapes and, more generally, other complex weapon point forms.
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| 34. |
- Lundström, Maria, 1986-, et al.
(författare)
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Genetic analyses of Scandinavian desiccated, charred and waterlogged remains of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
- 2018
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 22, s. 11-20
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Barley, Hordeum vulgare L., has been cultivated in Fennoscandia (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland) since the start of the Neolithic around 4000 years BCE. Genetic studies of extant and 19th century barley landraces from the area have previously shown that distinct genetic groups exist with geographic structure according to latitude, suggesting strong local adaptation of cultivated crops. It is, however, not known what time depth these patterns reflect. Here we evaluate different archaeobotanical specimens of barley, extending several centuries in time, for their potential to answer this question by analysis of aDNA. Forty-six charred grains, nineteen waterlogged specimens and nine desiccated grains were evaluated by PCR and KASP genotyping. The charred samples did not contain any detectable endogenous DNA. Some waterlogged samples permitted amplification of endogenous DNA, however not sufficient for subsequent analysis. Desiccated plant materials provided the highest genotyping success rates of the materials analysed here in agreement with previous studies. Five desiccated grains from a grave from 1679 in southern Sweden were genotyped with 100 SNP markers and data compared to genotypes of 19th century landraces from Fennoscandia. The results showed that the genetic composition of barley grown in southern Sweden changed very little from late 17th to late 19th century and farmers stayed true to locally adapted crops in spite of societal and agricultural development.
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| 35. |
- Magnell, Ola, et al.
(författare)
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Mesolithic deer hunting- Prey choice of red deer (Cervus elaphus) based on age and sex distibutions
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 29
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The Mesolithic hunting on red deer (Cervus elaphus) has been examined by analysis of prey choice through theage and sex distributions based on dentition and morphometry of zooarchaeological remains from fiveMesolithic settlements in Sweden dating to 9000–6000 cal BP. The results indicate a general selection of individualsaged 2–5 years at most sites, while the sex distribution was skewed toward either stags or hinds. Thehunting was directed towards animals that provided high immediate and short-term returns of meat. Few observationspoint to hunting patterns that would have been associated to conservational perspectives of the reddeer populations. A comparison indicates that local and site-specific differences in hunting practise can bediscerned which probably was related to local conditions linked to environment, function of sites and huntingtraditions, but no distinct correlation of hunting pattern to chronology or different regions. The study shows thepotential to evaluate kill-off patterns in relation to optimal foraging perspectives restricted to one prey species.
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| 36. |
- Maltin, Emma, et al.
(författare)
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Isotopic and historical evidence of regional stockfish trade in the Skagerrak during the 16th century
- 2024
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 54, s. 104439-
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Preserved fish was one of the main traded commodities in medieval and early modern times, and herring and cod were the socioeconomically most important species. This paper brings together stable isotope ratio analysis of archaeological cod bones and documentary data from customs records originating from the early modern Swedish town of Nya Lödöse (1473–1624 CE), shedding new light on the import of stockfish (dried cod). The combined results show that the stockfish imported to Nya Lödöse was mainly produced in the Danish town of Skagen, and the importance of Bergenfish was negligible. The Skagen fisheries targeted large gadids, skates, and flatfish and have hitherto been bypassed in archaeological research on the medieval and early modern fish trade. The findings of this research highlight the intense connectivity between communities across the Skagerrak and give an example of the comprehensive regional fish trade that existed alongside the long-distance trade. Another important conclusion is that the isotopic values for cod caught in the Skagerrak must be used with caution since this sea basin is populated by several different cod stocks. The North Sea cod population inhabits a large part of the Skagerrak, and cod bones with isotopic values consistent with the North Sea might thus have been fished in the Skagerrak.
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| 37. |
- Marsal, Roser
(författare)
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Early water management systems on the southern Transjordan plateau
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 47
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The efficient management of water resources to supply the needs of societies in territories where water is a scarce and limited resource has been essential throughout time. The site of Sela on the southern Transjordan plateau is unique for understanding water management in this semi-arid area. The analysis of hydraulic installations has allowed us to characterise its hydro technology and spatial distribution in the settlement. To this end, the hy-draulic facilities have been identified, documented, and analysed in detail through two archaeological surveys (2015 and 2016). Spatial analysis has been carried out by preparing extensive 2D planimetry and 3D re-constructions. The results obtained have made it possible to reconstruct the water supply system necessary for the subsistence of the societies that inhabited Sela over time. The system consists of canals, cisterns, and sedi-mentation basins for the collection, conduction, storage, and preservation of water, mainly from rain. Some of Sela's hydraulic structures may have originated in the Bronze Age (mid-late 2nd mill. BCE), but more secure dating is needed to substantiate this possibility.
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| 38. |
- Myrstener, Erik, et al.
(författare)
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Was Moshyttan the earliest iron blast furnace in Sweden? : The sediment record as an archeological toolbox
- 2016
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 5, s. 35-44
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Recently, archeological study of the establishment and spread of iron blast furnace technology in Sweden has suggested a phase of rapid expansion from AD 1150 to 1350, mainly in the historically important "Bergslagen" region in central Sweden. But the geographical extent and earliest development remains debated. One archeological investigation of Moshyttan, in the less studied western part of Bergslagen, suggested that it may have been established before 1150. To independently study the timing of blast furnace establishment at Moshyttan, and also the vegetation history of the area, we performed a multiproxy analysis of the sediment record from Fickeln, a small lake immediately downstream of the smelter site. We present radiocarbon dating (macrofossils and bulk sediment), pollen, charcoal particles and geochemistry. To establish a reliable age depth model, ages of the bulk samples were corrected for old carbon and the model was validated by comparison to chronological markers (immigration of Picea abies and airborne lead-pollution) in other lakes with varved or otherwise robust chronologies. Based on markedly increasing lead concentrations, decreases in the Pb-206/Pb-207 ratio towards values resembling Bergslagen ores, increasing charcoal particle counts and increases in iron and zinc concentrations, the establishment of the blast furnace is estimated to AD 1250-1300 with an age-depth model probability of 91%. This places the establishment of the blast furnace at Moshyttan within the known period of early expansion of iron blast furnaces in Sweden, rather than earlier as suggested by the earliest dates from the archeological study. The first signs of a human presence in the area can be seen in pollen associated with forest grazing from ca. 170 BC, and the first signs of cultivation appear ca. AD 1020, preceding the blast furnace by 200 years.
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| 39. |
- Nichols, Christopher
(författare)
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Domestic dog skeletons at Valsgarde cemetery, Uppland, Sweden : Quantification and morphological reconstruction
- 2021
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 36
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Thirty inhumations have been excavated at the cemetery of Valsgarde in central Sweden, of which twenty-one have been dated to the Vendel Period and Viking Age (c. 550-1100 CE). Of these graves, twelve contain the positively-identifiable remains of domestic dogs (Canis familiaris). This study aimed to quantify and describe these dogs in terms of withers height and morphological type (morphotype). A minimum of twenty dogs was identified. The majority of dogs were determined to be of medium-large size, with a variety of types represented. The Viking Age graves contain fewer dogs on average than those of the Vendel Period, symptomatic of a general scaling-down of funerary assemblages at the site during this time. Despite this reduction in numbers, their persistence throughout this transition indicates the species held a significant position in the funerary traditions of the region, and certain individuals also appear to have held great personal value for their masters.
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| 40. |
- Nilsson Stutz, Liv, et al.
(författare)
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Disturbing the dead. Archaeothanatological analysis of the stone age burials at Zvejnieki, Latvia (excavated 2006–2009)
- 2016
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 10, s. 715-724
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The Zvejnieki burial ground in northern Latvia is one of the largest concentrations of burials from the Mesolithic and Neolithic in Northern Europe. The 308 burials, dominated by primary inhumation, excavated in the 1960s and 1970s have become important references for understanding the hunter-gatherer mortuary practices in the region. Recent excavations, implementing a taphonomy-focused archaeothanatological protocol revealed 26 additional burials. The analysis confirmed important aspects of the patterns already observed at the site, such as primary inhumation, multiple depositions, and the occasional practice of wrapping the body before disposal. The analysis also revealed previously ignored patterns of systematic disturbance. By focusing on the disarticulated remains and on establishing the sequence of disturbances, the study concluded that the disturbance of older burials must be understood not as accidental but as an integral and meaningful part of the mortuary practices that can be tied to a concern with permanence of places in the landscape at the transition to increasing sedentism among the Neolithic populations in the Eastern Baltic.
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| 41. |
- Norström, Elin, et al.
(författare)
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Micro-fossil analysis of Mesolithic human dental calculus, Motala, Sweden - Indications of health status and paleo-diet
- 2019
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 26
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- We analysed microfossil remains in human dental calculus sampled from an individual of the Mesolithic burials at Strandvägen, Motala, central Sweden. The analysis was targeted on phytoliths, diatoms and fungal spores. The composition of the phytolith assemblage suggests that plant micro-fossils found in the dental calculus partially stem from reeds of Phragmites. This suggests that the studied individual was consuming and/or manipulating reeds with his teeth. Spherical fungal spores were abundant in the calculus, possibly indicating weak health status, although it cannot be excluded that they originate from natural long-term accumulations. The diatom composition in the dental calculus was dominated by Cyclotella distinguenda, a species which is strongly linked to waters of the nearby Lake Vättern. This suggests that the studied individual primarily used water, and/or aquatic flora/fauna, from Lake Vättern.
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| 42. |
- Nowak, Kamil, et al.
(författare)
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A complex case of trade in metals: The origin of copper used for artefactsfound in one hoard from a Late Bronze Age Lusatian Urnfield Culture in Poland
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 49
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Metal artefacts from Bronze Age hoards have routinely been used to study interregional contacts. Their stylistic and typological features helped distinguish local products and imports by appearance. In the last 40 years, combined lead isotope and chemical analyses of metals have been widely applied to verify hypotheses based on style and typology. This paper is a comprehensive typological and analytical study of a metal item hoard discovered in Paszowice, SW Poland. In the Bronze Age, the area was inhabited by the Lusatian Urnfield culture (ca. 1350/1300–800/750 BC) communities. We expected that at least some of the artefacts would be local products fashioned according to foreign stylistic patterns. The research aimed to determine whether a ‘classical’ stylistic analysis combined with provenance studies of metals would allow more decisive conclusions. This combination of methods could also show how the metal reached the Lusatian Urnfield culture settlement zone. We conducted a detailed typological and chronological analysis to map the distribution of similar artefact types. It demonstrated that stylistic matches for the artefacts from Paszowice occur mainly in NE Hungary, S Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Romania. Selected metal artefacts (both tin bronze items and raw copper objects) from Paszowice were also analysed for their chemical (EPMA) and lead isotope (MC ICP MS) compositions. The study revealed many copper sources used for their production, ranging from the nearest copper mines in the Slovak Ore Mountains, through Eastern Alps and mines in Sardinia, to possibly the Iberian Peninsula. In this way, we identified the potential trade routes by which metal could get to SW Poland: the southwestern and southeastern routes and the Mediterranean-Danube route. The Iberian metal might have also reached the study area from the north – through its redistribution by Scandinavian traders. Our results show that metal from many sources circulated in central Europe during the Late Bronze Age. The Lusatian Urnfield communities were part of a pan-European exchange network and maintained extensive long-distance contacts, allowing metal acquisition from various sources
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| 43. |
- Oleszczak, L., et al.
(författare)
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The food culture of the Iron Age nomadic elite from the 'Valley of the Kings' in Tuva : radiocarbon dating, stable carbon and nitrogen analysis of the Chinge Tey barrows (Turan-Uyuk Basin, Russia)
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 51
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Subsistence strategies of Eurasian pastoral populations have been broadly studied in the archaeological literature. The 'Valley of the Kings' in Tuva, Russia, has captivated archaeologists with its remarkable collection of large burial mounds, containing lavishly equipped tombs of nomadic kings, warlords, and aristocracy. These barrows bear witness to the ancestral connections between the deceased leaders, highlighting the alliances among prehistoric nomads in Central Asia. In this research, we present comprehensive radiocarbon dating and 813C/815N isotopic data from the Chinge Tey barrows, which represent the burial sites of 12 high-ranking individuals. The chronological alignment of both Chinge Tey monuments with the Arzhan 1 and Arzhan 2 reference frames sheds light on their historical context. This study delves into intricate aspects of ecological adaptability, pastoral food practices, social hierarchies, and nomadic mortuary rituals. Analysis of carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes indicates potential connections between the barrows in the 'Valley of the Kings' and diverse nomadic cultures, suggesting that dietary habits among neighboring populations may have exhibited significant variation.
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| 44. |
- Papakosta, Vasiliki, et al.
(författare)
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Early pottery use across the Baltic – A comparative lipid residue study on Ertebølle and Narva ceramics from coastal hunter-gatherer sites in southern Scandinavia, northern Germany and Estonia
- 2019
-
Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 24, s. 142-151
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The Late Mesolithic Ertebølle and Narva cultures (6th – 5th/4th millennium BC) in the southwest and eastern Baltic, respectively, shared similar vessel types, namely pointed-based pots and oval bowls. As a consequence, this phenomenon raised questions about inter-cultural connections across the Baltic and possible influence for the production of pottery from the Narva to the Ertebølle hunter-gatherers. Whereas the two pottery traditions were shown to be different with regards to raw materials and manufacture, in this study we further attempt a comparison on the basis of function using a lipid residue analysis approach. The aim is to examine whether typological analogies were based on common functional requirements. This paper presents new evidence for the use of Ertebølle ceramics in the southwest Baltic from the analysis of pottery samples from a number of coastal sites in southern Sweden (Scania) and eastern Denmark (Lolland). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and gas chromatography-combustion-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC-c-IRMS) analysis were performed on the absorbed lipid residues to determine their structural characteristics and the stable carbon isotopic composition of selected fatty acids. Results are discussed and compared with analogous published data of Narva ceramics from Estonia. Data from other coastal sites in Denmark and northern Germany are also included for wider comparison. Based on our findings, we conclude that despite little variability in the isotope values of residues, Ertebølle and Narva pots did not serve the same functional demands, and different motives led to their production. Whilst the Narva ceramics appear to have had a specialized role in processing aquatic products, the Ertebølle were more multi-purpose vessels, used also for terrestrial animal and plant resources.
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| 45. |
- Pérez-Ramallo, Patxi, et al.
(författare)
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To the field of stars : Stable isotope analysis of medieval pilgrims and populations along the Camino de Santiago in Navarre and Aragon, Spain
- 2023
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 48
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The Camino de Santiago emerged in the first half of the 9th century CE following the reported discovery of the remains of the Apostle St James by the bishop of Iria-Flavia, Teodomiro. Since then, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims have walked from different parts of the Iberian Peninsula, Europe, and further afield to Santiago de Compostela's Cathedral. This route was particularly important to the populations of Navarre and Aragon, two kingdoms in northern Spain that rose to prominence with the resurgence of Christianity from the 11th century onwards. Here, we present multidisciplinary analysis of medieval individuals buried in Navarre and Aragon at a time when the Camino de Santiago was reaching its peak of popularity (11th-15th centuries CE). We use stable isotope analysis (δ15N, δ13C, δ18O, and δ13Cap) and radiocarbon dating to investigate a total of 82 human individuals together with 42 fauna samples from 8 different archaeological sites located in the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula. Twenty of these individuals were buried with a scallop shell, a symbol of a pilgrim who had completed the Camino de Santiago. Our data corroborate the use of the pilgrim's shell since at least the 11th century CE. Moreover, our results suggest that the pilgrimage was mainly an urban phenomenon for populations from the northern Iberian Peninsula, conducted equally by women and men, although with indications that female pilgrims may have had greater access to animal protein than their male counterparts. Our results represent the largest isotopic dataset of medieval individuals linked to the Camino de Santiago, allowing us to further investigate the origins and diets of potential pilgrims and, more generally, other sampled portions of northeastern Iberian society.
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| 46. |
- Peyroteo-Stjerna, Rita, 1977-, et al.
(författare)
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Multidisciplinary investigation reveals an individual of West African origin buried in a Portuguese Mesolithic shell midden four centuries ago
- 2022
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 42
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Cabeço da Amoreira is a well-studied shell midden with a robust chronology based on a large number ofradiocarbon dates on Mesolithic human burials. Surprisingly, we discovered one individual that lived about 400years ago buried in this site. We employed a multidisciplinary approach integrating archaeology, historical records,genetics, radiocarbon dating and stable isotope analysis to investigate the biogeographic origins of thisindividual and burial circumstances. We could determine that this was a man of West African origin, probablyfrom Senegambia, arriving in Portugal via the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. Our study provides new insights intoaspects of the life and death of a first-generation African individual in Portugal during the Trans-Atlantic SlaveTrade period and highlights the power of multidisciplinary research to unravel unwritten history.
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| 47. |
- Pokutta, Dalia A., et al.
(författare)
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Mobility of nomads in Central Asia : Chronology and Sr-87/Sr-86 isotope evidence from the Pazyryk barrows of Northern Altai, Russia
- 2019
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 27
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this study we report the first Sr-87/Sr-86 isotopic data and mobility analyses of the Pazyryk culture in Central Asia. Throughout prehistory the Altai Mountains represent a unique cultural frontier characterised by a perpetual state of transition, resulting from highly mobile nomadic inhabitants. We analysed human skeletal remains from barrows in the Manzherok region of the Altai Republic, Russian Federation. The analysis was based on 160 measurements of Sr-87/Sr-86 from Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and Thermal Ionisation Mass Spectrometry (TIMS), in tandem with environmental samples and comparative animal material. The combined dating evidence and strontium isotopic values indicate that after the 5th century BC, residential mobility amongst Altaic nomads is rising, especially long-distance female mobility, leading to contact acquisition with extrinsic territories of Central Asia. The Sr-87/Sr-86 isotopic evidence from Manzherok suggests that members of the Altaic population might have been buried in Scythian tombs located in Tuva and Khakassia, most notably in the Arzhan barrows.
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| 48. |
- Roy, Amber Sofia, 1992-
(författare)
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Direct analysis of ground stone artefacts; a study of the use of Early Bronze Age stone Battle-Axes and Axe-Hammers
- 2022
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 46, s. 103646-103646
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Most interpretations of ground stone artefacts are still based on their form and depositional contexts and lack scientific functional assessments, such as use-wear analysis and experimental archaeology. For instance, previous interpretations of perforated stone battle-axes and axe-hammers have been influenced by their form and similarity to the battle-axes of the Single Grave Culture in Scandinavia and have assumed the British battle-axes were purely ceremonial while the rougher axe-hammers were too large and crude to be either ceremonial or functional. Studies of typology, manufacturing processes and identification of petrological sources have failed to resolve the use of these implements. This paper presents the methodological approach used to revisit artefact function in the first large-scale application of use-wear analysis on Early Bronze Age battle-axes and axe-hammers from Northern Britain and the Isle of Man, 2200–500 BCE. The data supports a reassessment of the role of these objects, indicating they were versatile and multi-functional tools while expanding traceological research data for bladed ground stone artefacts. Moreover, it enhances the field of use-wear analysis on bladed ground and polished stone artefacts, of which only a small fraction have been analysed in this manner. As such, this research demonstrates the academic potential of applying use-wear analysis and experimental archaeology to the study of ground stone artefacts, which has thus far received less attention than knapped and flaked industries.
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| 49. |
- Roy, Amber, 1992-, et al.
(författare)
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Use-wear analysis reveals the first direct evidence for the use of Neolithic polished stone axes in Britain
- 2023
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 49, s. 103882-103882
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Polished stone axes have long been recognised as one of the most important forms of material culture in the Neolithic. Research over the last 40 years has done much to understand their origins, patterns of exchange across Europe, deposition, and social importance. Despite this long-recognised importance, little work in Britain has focused on the actual use of these objects. This article presents the first use-wear analysis of 20 Early Neolithic polished stone axes from Britain. This research shows that whilst many were used for woodworking, no doubt associated with forest clearance as agriculture spread, this masks the detailed and variable roles polished stone axes played in the emergence of Neolithic worlds in Britain, which use-wear has the capacity to reveal.
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| 50. |
- Saage, Ragnar, et al.
(författare)
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Metal residues in 5th c. BCE-13th c. CE Estonian tools for non-ferrous metal casting
- 2018
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Ingår i: Journal of Archaeological Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 2352-409X .- 2352-4103. ; 19, s. 35-51
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper investigates Estonian tools for non-ferrous metal casting in the form of crucibles, moulds, and casting ladles dating to the Estonian Iron Age (500 BCE-1227 CE), adding elemental analysis and 3D modelling to the traditional typological comparison. In contrast to the neighbouring countries of Russia, Latvia, and Sweden, no comprehensive study has previously been published on this subject for Estonian material. The typological analysis sets Iron Age Estonia in the same metalworking tradition as that of other eastern Baltic countries and Northwestern Russia. However, some classes of casting tools present in Scandinavian and Slavonic areas have so far not been encountered in the Estonian archaeological record. The elemental analysis included qualitative pXRF analysis of 175 artefacts and detailed residue analysis using SEM-EDS of thirteen selected artefacts. This analysis identified for the first time Estonian Iron Age casting tools - crucibles - used for casting gold and silver. Most of the investigated crucibles were used for casting various copper alloys, while the casting ladles and most of the stone moulds were used for casting pewter. Casting of pewter and precious metals only occurred in regional centres such as hill forts and strongholds, while copper alloys were cast in all parts of Estonia. In addition to clarifying fundamental questions about Estonian Iron Age metal casting, this study also lays a foundation for using modern analytical techniques in future investigations of Estonian metalworking traditions.
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