Prehistoric metalwork in focus- analysis and interpretation of copper alloy metalwork

Education facts

Code: AE1001

<p>This is a stand-alone course that students can elect to further their basic knowledge of archaeological metalwork. We will go through various different aspects of metalwork analysis. We will train hands-on to sort copper alloy metalwork using typology, which helps to understand the chronology and function of the objects. This is a method transferable to other material culture. During the course, a range of natural scientific methods will be discussed that are used to learn about the entire biography of the objects from the origin of raw materials (lead isotope analysis), their production (trace elemental analysis, metallography, traceology), and use (traceology) to their eventual discarding including what happened to them chemically after their deposition (corrosion studies). Students will learn to analyse the data source-critically and choose which methods to use to investigate the material further. To this end, they will be able to discuss which information each method provides and judge the suitability of the objects for such analysis.</p> <p>The course consists of various lectures in which different copper alloys, metal objects from several periods, and analysis methods are introduced. In addition, there will be seminars in which the students can test and experience some methods themselves and discuss their results.</p>

Entry requirements

To gain permission to the course, at least 30 credits in undergraduate archaeology courses or equivalent are required.

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• Prehistoric metalwork in focus- analysis and interpretation of copper alloy metalwork

  University of Gothenburg

  Start date: 2 September 2024

  End date: 4 November 2024

  Pace of study: 100 %