tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84559523377107127292024-03-13T10:42:43.459-07:00Musings of an Unemployed ArchaeologistCezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-4114094805577150492013-08-27T16:14:00.001-07:002013-08-27T16:14:27.288-07:007 Years, 1 Ba and 1.5 MA's....So it has been 7 years since I got my A-Level results and so I have done a little bit of reflecting. Nothing has turned out quite as I had planned, other than I am well on the road to crossing off all the qualifications I aimed to get. It all started with those results, I got what I needed and my career in heritage could begin...couldn't it? Not quite! I packed my stuff and off I went to Lampeter, I was certain I would study archaeology, get my degree and run off to Greece moving from site to site and having a ball. Within a month I knew Greece was not for me and neither was Italy (backup plan) instead it was all about the Neolithic. This new and exciting period that was a complete mystery to me, was to be my future. By my second year this had changed too, a module on the Minoans took me back to Greece, though this was short lived. The third year took me through a journey I will never forget and forever be grateful for having. It was not easy and it without doubt changed me, but it brought back my desire and made it clear that the Iron Age was for me. But not any old Iron Age, it had to be British! My theory based dissertation took me on adventures to museums, with imagery and impressions of the period being scrutinised, something I will revisit one day. This took me to the end of my 4 years in the middle of nowhere and lead me straight into a year in Canterbury, and cemented my love of my period. A long year of hard work paid off and I ended with a grade I only dreamed of when I began the course. And never for one minute did I think a tiny corner of Kent could become so focal in my life. The return home was not easy and the year of unemployment was even harder. The cards had been dealt and I have ended up in a military museum as a museum assistant. This has taken me into distance learning, and a second masters, this time in Museum Studies. Although removed archaeology creeps in at every possible opportunity and this is not something I am about to change as I ponder how to keep it in the next dissertation.<br />
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So I have not become and archaeologist and I cannot say I am happy about this, but I cannot say I have given up on the idea either. I do not yet have the PhD that 17 year old me was determined to get, but again I have not given up on that either, just moved my time frames around a little. But I have learnt that I can teach and more importantly that I love to teach. So that is the new aim, to teach preferably within a museum and even more preferably a museum that involves an archaeological collection. Finding advice on this is more difficult than archaeology on it's own, but, when did that ever stop me? I am not against undertaking a PGCE it is the decision as to which one, Primary, Secondary History or Post 16, Google it seems currently has no answers!<br />
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So what does all this mean? I suppose it means I have been dealt cards that 17 year old me did not foresee. I never thought teaching would be for me, until I was put in the position of doing it, discovered that I was pretty good at it and that actually it was the best bit of my job. Who knows what will happen next but it has made me consider what I really want to do/achieve so here we have a <a href="http://musingsofanunemployedarchaeologist.blogspot.co.uk/p/bucket-list.html" target="_blank">Bucket List</a>....<br />
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In the short term though, I need to prepare a wonderful presentation to take to my beautiful Isle in order to share my thoughts of her archaeology to her residents at the end of September. It has seemed so far away fro so long it is hard to believe that it has finally come around!<br />
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It has been a super busy Summer and I have let my poor blog slide a little, but I am pleased to say that we have crept over the 8,000 views marker and I can't quite believe it, so Thank You for reading and here is to the next 8,000!!!Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-25111647551877843022013-06-20T12:48:00.001-07:002013-06-20T13:07:04.633-07:00The Future is Bright...The Future is GreyI am writing this post as I make the long journey home from the First Annual Student Archaeology Conference in York! The conference was an interesting experience and not quite what I thought it would be...not that I really know what I thought it would be. All I can say is what it was wasn't what I was expecting!<br />
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There were fewer students, given the potential platform of such conferences for meeting other like minded students and such I was shocked that so few were there. I as also amazed by the distinct lack of prehistory, there were a few papers but it was very much a historical focus, maybe this is due to the location with York providing such a rich record. A traditional speaker presents then end of session a discussion happens, I appreciate the need to run to time, however, I often felt like the discussion was the point of the conference and it was very much a secondary focus. Hindsight suggests that having session run similar to seminars may have worked better, there would've fewer papers but there would be more time available to discuss issues. After all an open forum allows for greater learning doesn't it?<br />
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I felt my paper went well, it was the first of the after lunch session and there were a few light moments. I ran a little over and had to cut the paper short which is frustrating on my part, an extra few minutes and the audience may have had a better grasp of what I was trying to demonstrate. Much was made in a paper following my own about disjointed archaeology and snobbery within academic archaeology. A lack of willingness to merge science and arts, something I have rarely experienced. However what I have noted is the divide between the academic and the professional field archaeologist. Here there lies strained working relations and I feel that the use of Grey Literature allows this gap to be bridged. At the end of the day it is the field archaeologists that encounter the majority of our archaeology, yet we very rarely consult their reports or consider their sites in our research and paper writing. I used this very valuable resource during my time in Kent and am hoping that a PhD will soon be in the pipeline, furthering my existing research and working in a close capacity with units and trusts than I did the first time around...call it the benefit of experience.<br />
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The overwhelming theme within the conference was the need for community engagement, yet the focus of this was children, with exception to the homeless project. This is something that was also discussed in the community engagement day school in Oxford and it is refreshing to see new audiences being engaged with the past and integrated within the heritage family. However as mention above field and academia needs uniting, they are a little like divorced parents and archaeological research, I feel, is suffering as a result. The fault for this lies largely with academics, they bring the new generation of archaeologists through and if they do not discuss the commercial world a student cannot learn. Along with worrying about adding new members to our archaeology family with community projects I feel we need to take care of existing members. Without the commercial sector my dissertation could not have happened, it is that simple. It is sad to think of the discoveries that are lying in archive boxes waiting for someone to uncover them once more.<br />
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I truly believe that Grey Literature has a place in academic archaeology and that field archaeologists also have their role to play too. We both seek to understand, preserve and where possible protect the past world we simply go about it in different manners.<br />
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I hope delegates were able to take away the ideas from the last two days and apply them in real situations that they have seen or heard about. I love theory but it can create a beautiful safe bubble.<br />
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I am ending this post with the continue notion that the future is bright and the future is grey...even if it only for my beautiful little Isle for now....<br />
Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-18989877010231181022013-04-11T08:00:00.000-07:002013-04-11T08:00:30.394-07:00Making a DifferenceHello All,<br />
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This one is not heritage related, but, it is people related! This year myself and some friends are taking part in Race for Life, we appreciate that money is short for everyone but sadly Cancer does not understand this and continues to affect people everyday. We want to do our bit to help and we would be very grateful if you would kindly sponsor us. Everything helps and we would be over the moon if you could help even 50p would make our day and bring us closer to defeating cancer. We have our just giving page and I will not bother you with this again.<br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><a href="http://www.raceforlifesponsorme.org/firing-line-warriors/eurl.axd/7faedeaf5ad1a243995bf64b85c78112" onclick="LinkshimAsyncLink.referrer_log(this, "http:\/\/www.raceforlifesponsorme.org\/firing-line-warriors\/eurl.axd\/7faedeaf5ad1a243995bf64b85c78112", "https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/si\/ajax\/l\/render_linkshim_log\/?u=http\u00253A\u00252F\u00252Fwww.raceforlifesponsorme.org\u00252Ffiring-line-warriors\u00252Feurl.axd\u00252F7faedeaf5ad1a243995bf64b85c78112&h=sAQHa4z-Y&s=1");" onmouseover="LinkshimAsyncLink.swap(this, "http:\/\/www.raceforlifesponsorme.org\/firing-line-warriors\/eurl.axd\/7faedeaf5ad1a243995bf64b85c78112");" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.raceforlifesponsorme.org/firing-line-warriors/eurl.axd/7faedeaf5ad1a243995bf64b85c78112</a><br />
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Thank you for taking the time to read this<br />
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-38128333099349354162013-03-27T13:15:00.000-07:002013-03-27T13:15:04.179-07:00Repatriation: The View From Here...A week or so ago I posed you the question of <a href="http://musingsofanunemployedarchaeologist.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/to-repatriate-or-not-to-repatriate.html" target="_blank">repatriation</a> and through <a href="http://www.bajrfed.co.uk/showthread.php?6600-Repatriate-or-not" target="_blank">BAJRFed</a> you formed a debate, thank you. So now it is my turn, many will agree and many will not, but that is the beauty of archaeology.<br />
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Firstly I would like to make it clear that repatriation can be the answer, I am not anti it as a concept, but do worry about it being abused. There are clear cut cases when Westerners have 'explored' countries around the world and in one way or another taken elements of their indigenous culture. To many indigenous peoples these are not artefacts or objects of curiosity, they are their ancestors, their culture, their world. As such they have every right to determine what happens next and I would encourage museums and archaeological units (where necessary) to work alongside indigenous groups to portray and protect their cultures and ancestors.<br />
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In Britain I feel the situation is different. Our ancient peoples would not recognise any element of our modern lands, yes we have maintained monuments such as Stonehenge and many landscapes portray aspects of our ancient past. However, religious philosophies are multiple, there are few who rely on the land for a livelihood and technology has changed what we prioritised. As such deciding the fate of our ancient dead is complex. We are unsure as to their views on life, death, afterlife, faith and much more. To allow this understanding to grow museums, archaeologists, osteologists and many more try to piece together clues. Finding a prehistoric structure is common, postholes, pits and ditches are well known within the archaeological record, however what does that tell us about people? Not a great deal and there is nobody to ask, this makes the remains of our ancient dead essential to furthering our understanding of the life and death of the ancient man, woman and child. Without studying human remains we would be unaware of how multi-cultural prehistoric societies were, how far people moved and how ideas we able to spread so rapidly in world without Facebook! Now do not get me wrong I am not pro everyone going out to find themselves human remains to experiment on and I do not believe in exhuming the dead unless their burial place is at risk. Many are found during commercial archaeology and I believe it is better for them to be exhumed than built upon and be forever forgotten.<br />
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Much of the reading I undertook for my essay pointed me in the direction of Pagan groups and the one which jumps out is Honouring the Ancient Dead. Now I am all for everyone maintaining their desired faith and others respecting it. However, I feel HAD make the world of heritage seem dirty, seedy and underhanded. They often imply that archaeologists and museum professionals do not care about the remains of the ancients and that they are treated as scientific specimens to be wheeled out of collection stores when the next big idea comes along or museum visitor number are dropping. I feel this to be an absurd notion, I know from my own experience that the study of human remains is to allow the ancient peoples to once more inhabit the landscapes that are being studied. I agree that museum displays and archaeological texts can be lacking the human touch from time to time, but I feel this is improving. It will not change over night, the science and the peopling of the past have reached a balance and now that is beginning to shine through in articles and displays.<br />
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So why are human remains displayed?<br />
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I honestly believe that human remains can lead to a new level of understanding when people visit museums. Seeing material culture is interesting and allows them to see what was there but it does not bring people into the equation. There is often a critique for not peopling the past, yet when ancient remains are displayed in Britain that is not right either...it seems we cannot win!<br />
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Living in the technical age is of huge benefit to us in matters such as these. I do not believe that human remains should be handled on a regular basis, the display which they become a part of is essentially their new burial place and as such commands a level of respect. This is obvious to me regardless of your faith, culture or any other inclinations you may have. However, technology would surely allow is to create replicas, this can then satisfy both sides of the coin, remains are removed from display but replicas allow education to continue. In terms of Britain, even with the use of replicas I do not believe that our ancient dead should all be immediately reburied as I feel as science continues to develop they will allow us to learn more about our ancient lands.<br />
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What about overseas?<br />
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Overseas, is another questions and I do not profess to have all the answers...not by a long shot. However, if American museums worked more with Native American communities to develop exhibitions relating to their culture rather than seeing them as having the potential to remove elements of their collections, relations would improve. Both sides are trying to protect what is important to them, however, I often feel that people are forgotten when culture is mentioned. America is a huge multi everything nation and museums should reflect this. Each ethnic group has the potential to experience issues, yet, Native Americans appear to be perceived as something that has past and is no longer part of the world. This may not be the case, however, it is the way it has always come across to me. Museums should promote their past as much as any other element of American society, however, it should be presented in an ongoing manner and the communities should have vast input on how this is achieved. The museum should be a place that Native Americans take their children to learn about their past and the wider past of the country. Improved relations will ultimately integrate America and it will become culturally richer as a result. <br />
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In the case of America the discussion relating to display and storage is, I feel, a personal dialogue between museums and related communities. It is a two way street and it could lead to a fulfilling and vibrant learning environment for all. However, I fear it will be along time before that is the case. The ancient remains held in American Museums are far more traceable to modern communities than is the case in Britain. As a result consultation and collaborative working is essential if conflict is to cease and celebration is to begin.<br />
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As I have previously stated, I do not profess to have all the answers, but, I often feel that a little bit of common sense, some compassion and the patience to listen could ease the pressure of the repatriation debate and allow everyone to develop a plan for the future. The people of the present cannot undo the wrongs of the past, they cannot even apologise as it was not them that instructed or carried out the acts. However, they can put steps in place to ensure that such wrongs do not occur again and that everyone has a say in what happens to their ancestors and all aspects of their material culture. After all it is their story to tell....<br />
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Thank you again for forming a debate, I am sure my opinions are likely to cause more reaction, but, it is important that such topics are considered and discussed. The more we make it taboo the longer that poor practise will continue and that is something that no party wants.<br />
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Want to learn more?<br />
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Honouring the Ancient Dead <a href="http://www.honour.org.uk/">http://www.honour.org.uk</a> <br />
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<div class="Default" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">James, N. 2008
Repatriation, Display and Interpretation <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Antiquity</i>
Vol. 82 770-777<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Jenkins, T. 2011 <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Contesting
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<st1:placetype w:st="on"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Museum</i></st1:placetype></st1:place><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> News</i>. July/August 55-58</div>
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Mor, H. 2010. The Obscure Ownership of Archaeological
Material <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">British Archaeology </i>Vol. 114
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Moshenska, G. 2009 The Reburial Issue in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Britain</st1:country-region></st1:place> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Antiquity</i> Vol. 83 815-820</div>
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Payne, S. 2010. A Child’s Gift to Science <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">British Archaeology </i>Vol. 112 <a href="http://www.archaeologyuk.org/ba/ba112/science.shtml"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.archaeologyuk.org/ba/ba112/science.shtml</span></a>
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<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Pickering</st1:city></st1:place>,
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Twenty-First-Century Museum </i>Routledge: Oxon 256-274</div>
Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-4223985596213689702013-03-17T10:33:00.000-07:002013-03-17T10:33:29.723-07:00To Repatriate or not to Repatriate?Repatriation is probably one of the most contested and emotive issues within heritage. It comes with far more questions than it ever does answers, yet for a paper I about to write as part of a course I'm currently doing I am seeking for answers.<br />
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The question I have is so broad the 2500 words seems like it can only ever be an introduction! After completing a fair bit of background reading I still do not know if I fully agree or disagree with the notion. I have however reduced it down to human remains and more specifically of ancient Britons. There seems to be a lot of focus on the repatriation of indigenous peoples and rightly so, but, I have found very little on the repatriation of Britons from Britain's museums. There are Pagan and Druid groups that are making calls for museums to return Britons to their locales and to be re-interred. However, this has problems of its' own, from where to place them, how to place and what sort of ceremony should occur. I can't even decide when the term ancient Briton no longer applies!<br />
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As you can see I have found myself a mine field, but, I am not put off by it! Instead I thought I would try and gather the thoughts of others, so it is over to you...if you have strong views, good articles, case studies anything at all really get <a href="http://musingsofanunemployedarchaeologist.blogspot.co.uk/p/keeping-in-touch.html" target="_blank">in touch</a> and broaden my horizons.<br />
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Looking forward to hearing from you all :0)Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-12806514208687362013-02-04T14:16:00.003-08:002013-02-05T08:08:22.639-08:00The Tale of King Richard...With Leicester University's announcement that the human remains discovered in a carpark in September 2012 are in fact those of Richard III, it only seems right I should blog about him!<br />
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Richard was born on 2nd October 1452 at Fotheringhay Castle, Northamptonshire. He was the youngest child of Richard Plantagenet, 3rd Duke of York and Cecily Neville. During his early years Richard was housed at Middleham Castle, Wensleydale; here he was under the tutelage of Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick, who was also his cousin. He seemed to flourish in the environment and developed friendships, it is also where he first met Anne Neville, but we will come back to that later.<br />
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At the tender age of 8 Richard's father and older brother, Edmund, Earl of Rutland both died during the Battle of Wakefield. He and another elder brother George, later Duke of Clarance, were sent to the Low Countries where they remained until the end of the Battle of Towton and the Coronation of their Eldest brother Edward IV in 1461. By now Richard had his own titles, despite being 9 he was named Duke of Gloucester, became a Knight of the Garter and a Knight of the Bath. He then returned to Middleham Castle to undertake training as a knight, where he stayed until he was 12.<br />
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Throughout his young life the Wars of the Roses raged and he played his part, King Edward made him the Commissioner of Array for the Western Counties at 11 and by 17 he had taken full command. At the age of 18 he had fled once more, this time with his brother and King, to the Low Countries and later Burgandy. 1470 was the year and Richard Neville, the man that arguably raised him was the cause, he changed his political alleigances. This was a common occurance during the period, but, in this instance unexpected. Richard and his brother returned, he played an active role in the Battle of Barnet and the Battle of Tewkesbury and Edward IV was back on the throne by spring 1471.<br />
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It is following the vicotory at the Battle of Tewkesbury that Anne Neville returns to the tale, her husband was Edward of Westminster and son of Henry VI. He lost his life during the battle and she and Richard were soon to marry. This was not a straightforward affair either and his brother George disapproved of the match. This was purely financial, he was married to Anne's sister Isabel, being the only children they were to share an inheritance that George was keen to recieve. It is said the Richard signed a pre-nuptual agreement before marrying Anne in York on 12th July 1472.<br />
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Richard and Anne had a child in 1473, Edward of Middleham, he would go on to become the Prince of Wales. Richard also acknowledged two illegitamate children, a son, John of Glouster and a daughter Katherine who went on to marry William Herbert, 2nd Earl of Pembroke.<br />
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Life took another dramatic turn for Richard, on 9th April 1483 his brother, King Edward IV died, the cause of his death is unknown, but pneumonia and typoid are often suggested, as is poison. By 1483, the Lancastrian line was desimated and he ruled in peace, Henry Tudor was the only one left and he lived in exile, suggesting natural causes may have been more likely.<br />
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His death meant that his heir Edward V was to take the throne, however Edward was only 12. This is too young to rule the land and Richard was named Lord Protector, to ensure that things went in the interest of himself and his family Richard moved to London to be with the young King and minimise the influence that his mother's family had over him and his rule. <br />
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This is where it gets messy and Richard is painted in a far from pleasant manner. Many were arrested and taken to Pontefract Castle, they were accused of plotting to assassinate Richard and subsequently sentenced to death. After this Richard moved the young King and his brother, also called Richard, though this time Duke of York, to the Tower of London. Shortly after it is said that clergymen approach Richard and tell him that his brother's marriage to Elizabeth Woodville was unvalid as Edward had earlier relations with Eleanor Butler. In short this meant that the young King and his younger brother were illegitemate and as such neither could take the throne. On the 22nd June 1483 this was declared in a sermon outside St Paul;s Cathederal and Richard was declared the rightful heir to the throne. On 26th June Richard accepted throne and his corronation took place at Westminster Abbey on 6th July 1483.<br />
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This is where the Princes disappear, they are never seen and are often said to have been murdered by Richard. There is little direct evidence for this, in 1674 the remains of two children are discovered in the White Tower when King Charles II does a spot of redecorating. He believes them to be the little Princes and has them buried at Westminster Abbey. The tale is still told at the Tower of London and their ghosts are said to still walk the Tower.<br />
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Rumours of the princely deaths was bad news for the now King Richar III, Henry Stafford, 2nd Duke of Buckingham had plenty of things to say. Mainly that Henry Tudor should be brought out of exhile, handed the throne and Elizabeth of York's hand in marriage; Elizabeth was the elder sister of the princes. Henry Stafford was prepared to raise an army from his estates within Wales and the Marches. All was set to happen, Henry Tudor was on his way, with the support of the Breton prime-minister and Stafford was organised, then the weather turned, Henry Tudor had to turn back and when faced with Richard III's army his men deserted. Richard had a heavy prince of Stafford's head and one of 'his men' happily turned him in for the reward. He was charged with treason and later beheaded in Salisbury.<br />
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The threat of Henry Tudor was not quashed, he built up an army in France and by the summer of 1485 he was ready for battle once more. This time he landed in Pembroke, his birth town and as he travelled through Wales and the Marches he once more gathered support and increased his invasion force.<br />
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King Richard III and Henry Tudor finally met on 22nd August 1485 at Bosworth Field. Richard is said to have had 8,000 men while Henry only had 5,000, the exact numbers will never really be known. As the Battle raged it is thought that many of Richard's supporters deserted him and joined Henry's cause. This is said to have caused Richard to lead a cavalry charge, killing Henry's standard bearer and coming within reach of Henry. However, the once loyal Stanley's surrounded him and famously killed him in the field. It is said that Richard had fought bravely that day, but, the outcome was death, with the Burgundian chronicaler Jean Molinet claiming that it was a Welshman that dealt the fatal blow, with a halberd. He claimed the violence was so much that the King's helmet was driven into his skull. It said that he was then buried in Greyfriars Church, Leicester and that in 1495 the then King Henry VII paid for a stone monument to mark the spot of his burial, it is later meant to have been destroyed and the resting place of Richard III lost.<br />
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This was all to change in September 2012, Leicester University conducted an excavation in what is now a carpark, this discovered a grave with the remains of an individual within it. Much like Richard the skeleton showed a curved spine and visible trauma to the skull. With the location and the characteristics speculation was immediate and the archaeological world was excited by the find. Since then Leicester Uni and a hugely talented team have conducted various tests and studied the remains closely. Today they announced that beyond resonable doubt they believe they have in fact found the remains of King Richard III of England.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hzreAvAIa0Q/URAxzzui14I/AAAAAAAAARU/zEGqa4St8gw/s1600/richardskeleton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hzreAvAIa0Q/URAxzzui14I/AAAAAAAAARU/zEGqa4St8gw/s640/richardskeleton.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Radiocarbon dates have placed the remains within the period 1455-1540, Dr Jo Appleby has conducted oesteology studies and is confident that they are the remains of a male, in his late 20's or early 30's; Richard was 32. He had also suffered many injuries, 8 were to the skull and 2 had the potential to be fatal, all occurred near to or at the time of death. One such wound was created by a blade that plunged some 10cm into his skull, Dr Appleby concludes that if this had gone 7cm into the brain he would have died instantly. <br />
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Some of his injuries are thought to have occurred after his death, in a routine of humiliation and dissent, one of which created a pelvic injury. This is thought to have been caused through a weapon being thrust through the buttock. <br />
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The Tudors often describe him as being deformed, the skeleton clearly reveals that he suffered from scoliosis, but there is little to say that he suffered with other described ailments. <br />
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His grave was poorly cut, the sides were too short and the head was forced forwards; suggestive that it was either done at speed or without care. The arms were crossed, which is unusual and could indicate that they remained bound. The church itself was destroyed during the Reformation, however, local enthusiasts located the area that it would have been in and also located documented relations of Richard's. This was crucial for DNA and a gentlemen from Canada, Michael Ibsen, carries the matriarchal gene, passed from mother to child. The timing of the discovery is lucky, Joy, Michael's mother has sadly passed away and her daughter has had no children, meaning the line is about to come to a natural end. A DNA sample was taken from the teeth of the skeleton and it was hoped it would have survived well enough for analysis. Thankfully it has and was tested against samples provided by Michael and found by Dr Turi King to be a match.<br />
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With the church no longer in place, Richard III's remains cannot be reburied there. As such a tomb will be prepared and he is likely to be reburied at Leicester Cathedral in due course.<br />
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<em><u>Influential Reading</u></em><br />
<em><u></u></em><br />
Hipshon, D. 2010 <em>Richard III (Routledge Historical Biographies</em> Routledge<br />
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BBC news articles and Leicester University Press ConferenceCezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-12955403581920228942013-01-29T13:56:00.001-08:002013-01-29T13:56:15.512-08:00Welcome to...National Museum IrelandWell I haven't tried this before, at least not in blog form, so here it is a museum review!<br />
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I visited the National Museum Ireland in January and concentrated my efforts on the Archaeology building, it was a duel purpose, I wanted to see the lovely Broighter Boat; but I was writing an assessed article about the British Museum and her Britishness too. I have no doubt that researching national identities affected my perspective of the museum and its' displays, but, it does provide this review with a little bit of focus.<br />
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The outside of NMI is nothing to write home about, it is classical in appearance and seems understated until you walk into the reception area. A beautiful mosaic floor greets you with a spectacular dome above; it provides a wow before you even see an artefact! (Sadly I cannot share a photo as they are only allowed for personal use, hopefully I will receive some permissions soon and I will edit them in!)<br />
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As you walk through the main doors into the galleries you cannot miss the array of Irish gold which forms the centre of the ground floor...it has another wow factor and I still haven't really seen anything. I always have a prehistory agenda, so I knew I would get to all that gold, but it could wait a little longer...I had pottery to see.<br />
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The outer boundary of the gallery follows Ireland's prehistory, it is clearly presented in simple cases, designed to allow you to truly appreciate examples of everything, rather than full to bursting. Labelling can be a little hit and miss, it is always there, but aretefacts are not always numbered, which is a shame as the information is well structured and easily understood. I spent a great amount of time admiring some beautiful lithics, before the gallery relating to the Hill of Tara began to take my attention. Having been fortunate enough to visit Tara in 2009 it was a particularly rewarding gallery. It clearly explains and demonstrates the multi-period nature of Tara from prehistory to present, but is careful to avoid politics. This is something I feel deserves praise, it would have been easy to detract from the world significance and indeed the Irish significance of Tara by providing politics and the curators should be applauded for the manner in which it is handled.<br />
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After my visit to Tara I went back on myself a little to see the astonishing log boat, it is covered, but, not in a case. I am undecided as to how I feel about this, but, on the whole I think it is positive. The wall behind the boat details discovery, use, preservation and methods of excavation; successfully identifying the stages of boats life.<br />
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A particularly impressive gallery is that of the Iron Age, it covers life and death throughout the period in an accessible manner. The sensitive subject of human remains is dealt with particularly well, the gallery is now home to four bog bodies. Each is cleverly surrounded in a chamber, with information placed on the outer wall, thus leaving it open to the individual to decide whether or not to view them. I did, but, was shocked at how many did not. The display is peaceful and respectful, there are no gimmicks, sounds, additions, simply the encased individual in low lighting. I have mixed views on the display of human remains, but, this is a tactful display which many better funded museums could learn a lot from.<br />
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The mass of gold artefacts are generally parts of, if not entire, hoards. They are of course impressive and the workmanship is amazing; I am sure metal smiths of modern times would appreciate the complexity far more than I, but I was blown away! The most impressive pieces, including the beautiful Broighter Boat are tucked away in the Treasury, this gallery alone made for a worthwhile trip. The gallery name suggests that it is simply a treasure trove, however, this is not the case. Aretfacts and periods are very well represented and ample interpretation is provided. <br />
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The upper galleries are a little different, there is a taste of Ancient Egypt and Ancient Cyprus makes a worthy appearance too. Although taking away from the Irish story the artefacts are impressive and the mummies are displayed with their outer lids open, but, enclosed within inner layer, again a well thought out display. The remainder of the upper gallery houses the Vikings, a popular aspect of Dublin's history, but, possibly under-represented within this museum. This is possibly due to the overlap with the National History Museum though. There is a small section on Christianity and the loss of Pagan traditions, but this is far smaller than I thought it would be, again likely to be due to the overlap.<br />
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So what did I think? I loved it! I left feeling very away of Ireland and her proud history. The layout of galleries is suggestive of a prehistoric bias, obviously I enjoy this, but, I think it is largely related to the multi-site nature of Ireland's National Museum family. I did note that there is nothing representing Northern Ireland, but, considering they too have a National Museum I was not shocked. Gaelic is included within all signage and adds to the experience of an outsider, at least in my opinion. There are family activities dotted around the museum, but I was pleased by the lack of interactives, as I feel they often detract from the artefacts. The museum is not perfect, but, it is not far off so I would happily give it a 9/10 and recommend it to anyone that is planning a visit to Dublin. I saw every gallery at comfortable speed in about 2 hours.<br />
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So that is that, first one done! Thought it best to start on a pleasant one...as ever share your thoughts in all the usual ways. <br />
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Happy DiscoveringCezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-8760612708759652332013-01-25T13:19:00.000-08:002013-01-25T13:19:07.538-08:002013 So Far....Well January has nearly ended, I don't know about you, but I can't quite believe this yet. I had so many blog plans for this month, but, the month seems to have disappeared before I even got around to thinking about them!<br />
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So far I have had a flying visit to Dublin and London, where archaeology and museum studies benefited greatly and I was able to spend time at the National Museum of Ireland and the British Museum respectively. The latter was a purely work related visit and hopefully, after assessment I will be able to share the article with you all...it might even spark some healthy debate. I will review both museums over the next few days.<br />
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I think we need a bit of reshaping, so I will be working on presenting you all with a new look blog too!<br />
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Hope the New Year has started well for you all, I've certainly hit the ground running...hopefully it will all pay off!<br />
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-44224187151498244122012-12-31T08:57:00.000-08:002012-12-31T08:57:49.846-08:00Let us Raise a GlassWell here we are at the end of 2012, what a year it has been. Thankfully the world didn't end so I can once again thank my readers for continually reading my musings, you really are amazing and we have passed the 4000 views marker! Something I never dreamt would happen when I started writing. Blog technology tells me that the Advent Calender posts were successful and the amount of hits it registered was amazing...with this in mind 2013 will have artefact of the month as a regular feature. I of course want to make this blog as good as I can and to do it I would love feedback from my viewers. The Thanet research will continue and I hope to add some other bits and bobs along the way...deciding what is the hard part.<br />
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Thank you again for sticking with me and let us raise a glass to 2012's archaeological achievements and the adventures that 2013 may bring.<br />
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-16665032748796191692012-12-24T14:34:00.000-08:002012-12-26T14:36:33.391-08:00Twas The Night Before Christmas... As a Christmas Eve treat we have a particular favourite of mine<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo-bv6tpwm0/UNt3pcw0XVI/AAAAAAAAAPo/B3YjUUV4PMs/s1600/ringlemerecup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo-bv6tpwm0/UNt3pcw0XVI/AAAAAAAAAPo/B3YjUUV4PMs/s640/ringlemerecup.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image taken from the British Museum</td></tr>
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it is of course the Ringlemere Cup, discovered in Ringlemere, Sandwich, Kent. This Bronze Age cup dates to around 1700-1500BC and is made from sheet metal. Before damage it would have formed an S shaped vessel, with a rounded bottom; making use rather difficult. It has a corrugated top and a single handle; the second of its' type in Britain, but one of only 5 known in Europe. On discovery it was identified through the Portable Antiquities Scheme and has since been declared as Treasure, through the Treasures act; with the finder and land owner splitting the money paid by The British Museum for its' acquisition.<br />
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Since discovery a full excavation has taken place around the findspot and a barrow was located by Canterbury Archaeological Trust. On my last visit Dover Museum had a beautiful display, in the gallery adjacent to the Dover Boat, in relation to the cup. There is now a replica of the cup in position as the original is in the Prehistory Galleries of The British Museum, but, it is still well worth a look if you are in or around the area. The cup has been on many journeys since its' discovery in 2001, it made a brief tour of Britain and even made a stop off in Wales! It also found its way in 2006/2007 back home to Kent, where I feel it belongs.<br />
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It is often suggested that the cup was placed in the barrow as part of a burial, subsequently the modern plough has taken its' toll and the cup is clearly damaged. During the excavation CAT found no trace of a burial and as such new theories have emerged; the most popular alluding to a votive deposition. Hoards and Barrows are well known within Kent, particularly to the East of the county, with my knowledge (unsurprisingly) being related to the lovely Thanet (often seen in the Bronze Age as the Isle of the Dead!). It therefore seems a plausible notion. The excavation revealed several Iron Age and Saxon burials in and around the original barrow, thus showing that the area remained a significant one.<br />
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Due to the damage visualising the cup in all its' glory can be tricky so I shall leave you with this...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YWHucihovfE/UNt6tf4inXI/AAAAAAAAAP8/dT1PaxMnowE/s1600/ringlemere+cup+reconstruction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YWHucihovfE/UNt6tf4inXI/AAAAAAAAAP8/dT1PaxMnowE/s640/ringlemere+cup+reconstruction.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A British Museum Reconstruction</td></tr>
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That brings us to the end of our Advent Calender for 2012, I hope you have enjoyed reading it as much as I have enjoyed writing it.<br />
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I'm going to take the opportunity to thank you all for reading and I hope each and every one of you have a very Merry Christmas!Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-28428964464068721642012-12-23T12:32:00.000-08:002012-12-23T12:32:02.055-08:00Small yet Mighty Today we are exploring Germany, the Vogelherd Cave to be precise. The cave is located in the picturesque Lone Valley and has yielded some astonishing Upper Palaeolithic art.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SqNUhMVTYQ4/UNdikKJUjtI/AAAAAAAAAPU/Tg4DFRfHUtM/s1600/vogelherdhorse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SqNUhMVTYQ4/UNdikKJUjtI/AAAAAAAAAPU/Tg4DFRfHUtM/s400/vogelherdhorse.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image taken from <a href="http://www.ice-age-art.de/">www.ice-age-art.de</a> </td></tr>
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This beautiful horse is approximately 32,000 years old and has been carved from mammoth tusk. Over the years the layers of ivory have started to flake and unfortunately the legs have broken. The horse is tiny, measuring only c.5cm long and c.2.5cm high, yet it is clear that its' carver was skilled in the art form. The purpose of the carving is unknown, but the polished finish suggests that it was intended to be displayed. The horse is thought to be a stallion due to the curved neck, however, such positioning also suggests that the horse was not best pleased and the legs are likely to have assisted the viewer in identifying this. Despite being small it is most definitely mighty, it is certain to leave an impression with any visitor to the Museum Schloss Hohentübingen, Tübingen (Germany), where it currently is housed. This is thought to be the oldest known portable horse depiction and was kept company by several other animal carvings, mainly in ivory, but some were stone. The cave is thought to be a safe area where food was processed and consumed; the presence of such material culture suggests to me that it provided semi-permanent shelter for a group when hunting in the area. I think that this artefact needs no theories, what it was made for does not seem important, its' creation alone is remarkable.Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-35823422239828114022012-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:002012-12-22T08:00:01.222-08:00Family FunWell it's the season for family gatherings and with it comes the dreaded game of Monopoly, so here we have...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7s2eaCDujE/UNTOSLcH1PI/AAAAAAAAAPA/40BqHPBA7ec/s1600/romangameboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7s2eaCDujE/UNTOSLcH1PI/AAAAAAAAAPA/40BqHPBA7ec/s640/romangameboard.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image taken from the BBC</td></tr>
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a Roman gaming board. Well a fragment of one, discovered in bonnie Scotland. It is thought that the board was originally 15 squares by 8, with each player having 15 counters and a king. The game was called <em>'Ludus Lutrunculi' </em>and we think it worked a little bit like chess or checkers. <br />
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I didn't pick this artefact to tell you all about Roman games, instead I picked it to show a different side to those rotten Romans! They are always seen as an invading force, imposing their customs on those around them. We spend much of our time studying the impact they had on such societies, particularly in terms of military involvement. We see them as building military centres, basing soldiers in areas where they were experiencing unrest and disruption to their overall plans. One of their lasting legacies in Britain is Hadrian's Wall, still <em>in situ</em> it is a popular tourist attraction now, but, it has not always been that way; it was once a means of keeping away the unwanted and declaring the lands they classed as their own. Despite this harsh and physical barrier a gaming board found it's way into Scotland. This game shows the human side of the Romans, identifying that despite being seen as a military machine, they were people. They were social, miles from home and on the whole very few of them are likely to be truly Roman.<br />
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So when the bickering starts on Christmas Day about who won, who cheated, which rules to follow, you can take some comfort in the fact it has been happening since the Roman Period!Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-50853335927089060912012-12-21T11:26:00.000-08:002012-12-21T11:26:27.999-08:00The Final Countdown?Well it is December 21st 2012 and the World is thankfully still turning...so did the Maya get it wrong? Well lets investigate....<br />
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First things first, what does it look like? <br />
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Traditionally we expect to see something a little bit like this<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3EAakvLdnVM/UNSoayB_BOI/AAAAAAAAAOk/iR0JSZA3zaU/s1600/MayaCalender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3EAakvLdnVM/UNSoayB_BOI/AAAAAAAAAOk/iR0JSZA3zaU/s640/MayaCalender.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image taken from the Daily Mail</td></tr>
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But the Maya also used their pyramids to help them along, so calenders could also look a bit like this<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uqwnm3ixF3c/UNSo8_jhZrI/AAAAAAAAAOs/IhNG4lXRD7A/s1600/mayan-calendar-pyramid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="489" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uqwnm3ixF3c/UNSo8_jhZrI/AAAAAAAAAOs/IhNG4lXRD7A/s640/mayan-calendar-pyramid.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image taken from How Stuff Works</td></tr>
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So how does it all work?<br />
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Well we have days, months, years, counts and cycles to get our heads around so we will go with a step by step approach and hopefully you will still be with me at the end!<br />
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The lowest unit is a <em>kin</em> or 1 day and 20 <em>kin</em> make 1 <em>uinal </em>or 1 month...with me so far? Each <em>uinal</em> is based on the movements of the moon making the Maya calender lunar focused.<br />
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18 <em>uinal</em> is equal to 1<em> tun</em> which is 360 <em>kin, </em>after the 20th <em>kin</em> of the 18th <em>uinal</em> there are 5 days left over, these are known as <em>wayeb. </em>These days are particularly important as they are free days, meaning all gods are able to access the world, even those of the underworld. This means that all fires must be put out and the Maya community almost becomes one of mourning; fires must be put out, no food can be consumed if it has been cooked and there are even rules about washing and brushing hair. To break these rituals is to invite the gods of the underworld into your life and bring upon bad luck; to be born in these days is considered a terrible curse and your life would be filled with misery.<br />
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20 <em>tun </em>is equal to 1 <em>katun</em> and 20 <em>katun</em> is equal to 1 <em>baktun </em>which is about 394 years. Still with me? This continues up to 1 <em>alatun</em> which is equal to about 63 million years, so what does this mean for the end of the world? Well considering the calender only started on August 6th 3114BC with the beginning of the Maya world, we have a while left yet!!<br />
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So what about these counts and cycles?<br />
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First we have the <em>Tzolkin</em> cycle, this is known as the divine calender and is needed to make sure all religious activity occurs at the right time. It consists of 260 days or <em>kin</em> each with a number from 1-13 and one of 20 Maya names. The cycle starts again after reaching the 260th day.<br />
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Then we have the<em> Haab</em> cycle, this is where the<em> uinal </em>and the <em>tun</em> come into things. This calender is solar based, providing the 360 'normal' days and the 5 days of <em>wayeb </em>or 'free' days, full of bad luck. Unlike we do in our calender the Maya did not take the quarter days into consideration. The original <em>uinal</em> were named according to seasonal processes, which was logical until the quarter days were left out...then eventually the <em>uinal</em> names were a little more abstract. After the <em>Haab</em> cycle has been completed 52 times, it is judged to be the end of the Calender Round, this occurs once in most lifetimes; meaning a longer dating method is needed, this is the Long Count.<br />
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The Long Count is a means of calculating when an event happened in relation to a set day, this start day is thought to be August 6th 3114BC in our calender. It is this count that is said to have ended today, however, Long Counts also run in cycles and instead of being the end, its really a beginning. Today wasn't about doom and gloom, instead a celebration of a new beginnings!<br />
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So there we have it...the Maya Calender. Hopefully you stuck with me to the end and all made some sense at least. <br />
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-31359675878318737172012-12-20T12:26:00.001-08:002012-12-20T12:26:27.860-08:00When a Stone is not just a Stone <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2W83iL0v4XU/UNNk8XGMqqI/AAAAAAAAAOI/8yW92QC2bKc/s1600/skarabrae5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="321" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2W83iL0v4XU/UNNk8XGMqqI/AAAAAAAAAOI/8yW92QC2bKc/s640/skarabrae5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image taken from <a href="http://www.explorer.com/" target="_blank">www.explorer.com</a></td></tr>
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I have opened today with an image of the truly breathtaking Skara Brae, Orkney. With Winter Solstice almost upon us today had to focus upon the Neolithic, an era where so much research is focused upon the interaction of people with the Sun, Moon, Stars and Planets. It is a period I love dearly, but, have rarely been fortunate to study. So today I will tell you a little bit about the beautiful Skara Brae and then share one of my favourite Skara Brae artefacts.<br />
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Today is wet, windy and all together rather bleak, but, nothing like Orkney in the Winter of 1850. A storm hit Scotland and such was its' strength that some 200 people lost their lives. It also uncovered one of the World's most well preserved and admired archaeological sites. The 'village' of Skara Brae was known once more...and William Watt wasted little time in exploring the ruins, quickly setting up an amateur excavation. By 1868 and after uncovering 4 houses his attentions were no longer upon Skara Brae and the site was once more left to the elements. This was until 1913 when sadly a group of individuals visited the site looting and plundering an unknown number of artefacts, which by now could be anywhere. It was again left, then the Winter of 1924 set in and another storm hit Orkney, this time causing part of a house to be swept away, this time it was decided that something had to be done and Skara Brae's future rested with Edinburgh University and more specifically Gordon Childe. <br />
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By the 1970's 10 houses were fully excavated and the insight gained into Neolithic life was ever rising. The houses formed a pattern, 9 having almost identical layouts, with one bucking the trend. This lone house was quickly interpreted as being an area of crafts, a theory supported by the vast amounts of bone and ivory it contained. Skara Brae is now listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site and excavations and surveys are ongoing.<br />
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It is often said that the settlement is small, a village maybe, however it is also often forgotten that Skara Brae was once much further in land and a great deal is likely to be lost to sea. Surveys have also indicated further dwellings in nearby fields, though excavation is not yet possible. The wealth of artefacts remaining on the site leads many to suggest that Skara Brae is Britain's Pompeii. A theory that may not be too far from the truth, well minus the volcano bit! The preservation is amazing and the cultural remains are unparallelled for a site of its' type. Why did the inhabitants leave all their belongs behind? Surely they would need them where ever they moved to? For us as archaeologists the fact they left everything means we can do far more with the site, but as people if we stop and think about it, it means they left in a hurry. There was no planning, just up and gone, which means one thing...they were scared. It is thought that the 'village' was shielded by sand dunes, providing shelter from the Orkney elements. However, the dunes that kept them safe may well have been what caused them to flee. If a storm, such as that of 1850, occurred the protector would quickly become the enemy and begin to fill their homes. Some say it was quickly which caused them to up and leave, others argue it was slowly and leaving was far more controlled and for other unknown reasons. I am pretty convinced by the storm personally, it is was revealed it after all!<br />
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I keep hinting at artefacts and how they were left, but you have yet to see any, so I think it is about time I shared.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJ0b3CRmxFI/UNNk-URLpOI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/SIzVwG1zDXk/s1600/carved_stone_objects_skara_brae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJ0b3CRmxFI/UNNk-URLpOI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/SIzVwG1zDXk/s640/carved_stone_objects_skara_brae.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image taken from <a href="http://www.twcenter.net/forums/showthread.php?t=283527" target="_blank">twcenter.net</a></td></tr>
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They are carved stone balls and have presented archaeologists with yet more mystery. They appear in their highest numbers in North-East Scotland, but are known in the rest of Scotland, the very North of England and Ireland. They are all roughly the same size, c6cm in diameter, but their stone type and weight vary dramatically. This rules out them being used a measurements for traded goods, but does open endless new questions. Some people think the carvings and bobbly bits are there to make securing a rope to them easier, thus allowing them to be used as weaponry. Considering geographies and period I am far from convinced by this interpretation. <br />
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Geography plays a part in the second theory. North-East Scotland and its' islands have many Neolithic standing stone monuments and these carved balls are found in locations close by. As such it has been suggested that they were used to roll the wooden sleepers that carried some of the stones to their destinations. It is suggested that is why they are all of similar size, however, would they not be left with the standing stones, why would you take them home again?<br />
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Some people have suggested that they are net weights or sinkers, used to assist in fishing. The number of bones and shells from sea based creatures certainly adds to this theory in the case of Skara Brae. As does the lack of presence in graves, suggesting that they were not owned or significant in the afterlife. I would expect to find them on beaches rather than in 'villages', but if they had left in a rush this is possible.<br />
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My favourite theory is a bit more in line with the gods and the Solstice. It states that the carved balls are a form of rune or oracle. They are thrown, moved, rolled and how they fall tells their users what the gods want from them. The varied shapes and bobbles have the potential to relate to different gods. It also explains the conformity in size and styles, if the purpose is cosmological they are made within the boundaries of the belief. <br />
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So there you have the theories, what do you think? Do you agree with one? Or do you have something different? Don't forget to share!!<br />
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<br />Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-79818933415224133982012-12-19T13:21:00.001-08:002012-12-19T13:21:17.556-08:00A Gift From a King?Today's artefact mixes beauty, mystery and monastries...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lfGU_H3cR3o/UNIjbOPDRhI/AAAAAAAAANs/W-RhhayPJ2g/s1600/alfjewel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lfGU_H3cR3o/UNIjbOPDRhI/AAAAAAAAANs/W-RhhayPJ2g/s400/alfjewel.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.ashmolean.org/" target="_blank">The Ashmolean</a></div>
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It is the ever impressive Alfred Jewel! It was discovered in 1693, North Petherton, Somerset and was bequeathed to Oxford University in 1718 by Colonel Nathaniel Palmer. It now resides in The Ashmolean Museum, Oxford and a replica is held in the North Petherton Church. The teardrop artefact is some 6cm long and made from gold, with a cloisonné enamel plaque inserted in the centre and covered with a teardrop pieces of quartz. It is sometimes suggested that the quartz was originally cut in the Roman period and happened to fit well for the purpose of Alfred's Jewel. Its' purpose is much debated, over the years it has been suggested that it was everything from a pendant to the central piece of Alfred the Great's crown! Why Alfred the Great? Well it is inscribed with <em>'Aelfred mec heht gewyrcan' </em>which translates to Alfred ordered me made.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yDYJKR35WuA/UNIjkMMTqrI/AAAAAAAAAN0/pGXg0HxLJc0/s1600/AlfredJewelSide.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yDYJKR35WuA/UNIjkMMTqrI/AAAAAAAAAN0/pGXg0HxLJc0/s400/AlfredJewelSide.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This has always been assumed as being a royal reference, particularly due to it dating to the late 9th century AD. This is of course possible, but, I find the lack of royal title a little unusual. There is a fair case in favour of such theories and it goes a bit like this....</div>
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Firstly it is of course the inscribed name and the period. Secondly is the ornate nature of the Jewel, it so beautifully made that a master craftsman would be required, the sort that royal houses employ. So far I'm not too convinced either, but, there is some history to go with it! Alfred the Great is renowned for his military exploits, but, he was also a cultural fellow and was very keen to develop the role of the Church within England. He was keen to have key religious texts translated and distributed amongst the monasteries, one such text was the Pastoral Care of Pope Gregory the Great. This text was written in c. 890 and Alfred died in c. 899 so he just about had time to get it translated and distributed across the land. However, this text came with a little added extra, an <em>aestel, </em>to ensure the script was carefully followed and read in an appropriate manner. This is furthered by the enamel plaque, the image illustrates a man, seemingly of the cloth, sometimes said to be St. Cuthbert. Alternatively he has been likened to a silver brooch held at the British Museum, of similar date, which depicts the senses. On this brooch, much like the Alfred Jewel, a man is depicted holding flowers in each hand which is said to represent sight...somewhat appropriate for an image upon an aestel. This information is all well and good but how did the potential aestel get to North Petherton? Well some 8km away is the location of one of the monasteries that Alfred the Great sent the text and aesel to way back in the 9th Century. It is possibly an elaborate coincidence and studies are guided by the desire for it to be connected to Alfred the Great. I am not sure myself, I think I would like to know a bit more about it and its' contexts before I make up my mind, but, it is nice to think that 9th Century royalty made a mark across their lands, with such gifts. </div>
Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-42594209277449461352012-12-18T13:11:00.000-08:002012-12-18T13:11:17.247-08:00A Glimmer of Hope in the Darkest HourToday I was going to bring you an image relating to Prehistoric Cave Art, so I set about some research. I decided the best place to start was Lascaux caves, I have seen the images so many times but I have never taken the time to properly look. I am so glad I waited, their website (as long as you have Flash Player) provides quite the explorers experience. I was truly amazed! I shall give you my thoughts on the matter then give you the details on how to explore it yourself...we can all be Indie for just one day!! Here's a glimpse...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1F-wKnClB5g/UNDX1uwhEOI/AAAAAAAAANY/6oL7oQEKLdQ/s1600/LascauxCaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1F-wKnClB5g/UNDX1uwhEOI/AAAAAAAAANY/6oL7oQEKLdQ/s320/LascauxCaves.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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You are probably wondering why I sold this as a glimmer of hope, so I'll explain. The cave was discovered by 4 teens in 1940, World War II was well underway and France was a bleak and weary land. In September of that year they explored a 'fox den' convinced it would give them a secret entrance to a manor house, they didn't get that...they got something far better! The boys saw the cave paintings explored as best they could and told their teacher what they had found. He went to see for himself and was amazed at their find, and told the Chair of Prehistory in Toulouse. A photo study was carried out by October and the site was given national historical importance shortly after. In 1947 study was continuing but the caves were open to the public, by 1955 visitor numbers were still growing and shortly after provisions were made to make the cave more suitable. By the late 70's there were noticeable affects on the caves of the visitor numbers and it was promptly closed to the public in order to preserve it. Study is on going and a replica cave was built, which is still open today. <br />
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Such a discovery in 1940 must have brought glimmers of the World that local people thought they had left behind. It provided an escape from all the death and destruction that had become the World. The care that was shown to Lascaux during War must have told the French people that there would be an end and it would end well...why else would time and money be spent on their heritage? If the caves had not been found during the War years, funding and security may well have been harder to come by...but this cave and its' art showed how long people had lived in the region, they could be billed as French and utilised in terms of propaganda. This was probably of more value at the time than the caves ever have been to the world of heritage...they provided light at the end of the ever growing tunnel.<br />
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I'm sure you are all set to explore now and if you haven't already stopped reading my musings and done a Google search (Thank you for sticking with me!) here is the all important link:<br />
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<a href="http://www.lascaux.culture.fr/index.php#/en/00.xml">http://www.lascaux.culture.fr/index.php#/en/00.xml</a><br />
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Happy Exploring!Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-83446389704024065642012-12-17T12:24:00.000-08:002012-12-18T12:26:27.830-08:00A Time for Sharing...Today's artefact is one that symoblises two things; the social nature of food consumption and the best wetland Iron Age site in England....<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JHp7r6ql4p8/UNDMDolxzCI/AAAAAAAAANE/su14kVhmdbU/s1600/GlastonburyBowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JHp7r6ql4p8/UNDMDolxzCI/AAAAAAAAANE/su14kVhmdbU/s320/GlastonburyBowl.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Image taken from the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/" target="_blank">BBC</a></div>
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It is the lovely Glastonbury bowl! This bowl is probably one of the best known artefacts from the assemblage discovered at The Glastonbury Lake Village. The Village is thought to have been established in c.300BC and had declined by 100AD to the point of disuse. The Village was built upon a wooden platform and formed an artificial island in a peat bog, known in my part of the world as a Crannog. It is thought by 100AD the water levels had raised so high that the site had to be abandoned and as such it was quickly lost. Until 1892 when Mr Arthur Bulleid discovered the Village, though excavation was conducted until 1892. During this excavation much of the Village was unearthed and the wood was in extremely good condition, knowing that the peat and water was required to keep the Village it was reburied and studied from field notes and artefacts that it was safe to remove. On the whole the site and its' artefacts are cared for by The Glastonbury Antiquarian Society, founded by none other that Bulleid. They ensure the site is kept wet and run a small museum to display the many artefacts. This bowl is a beautiful example of Iron Age craft and serves as a reminder of day to day life and the need for food; however the ornate pattern and attention to detail may be an indication of more than the need for a bowl. I'm sure many of you have used a bowl today, but none quite as fancy I'm guessing? The decoration and material suggest that the consumption of food was a public affair in this Village, may be only certain times a year, but public none the less. Been as we are in the festive period it is easier to consider the social importance of consuming food. It is present at most parties and gatherings, we feel the need to prepare our own food more at this time of year, little things like making our own cake, pastry or pie, that we may be wouldn't do other times of the year...why? Because Christmas is special, it's the time of year we let people know how important they are and by making our own foods it's a way of expressing it, through the act of sharing what we have. There is nothing to suggest that a similar psychology wasn't present in Iron Age Britain, it wouldn't have been for Christmas, but, it may have been for the Winter Solstice. This bronze bowl is a good example of an artefact that, with a little thinking outside of the immediate box, can provide us with more information than functional activities. </div>
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-80624805303244597912012-12-16T10:45:00.001-08:002012-12-16T10:45:40.901-08:00Precious Little MomentsToday's artefact is more of a feature and serves as a reminder that every moment is precious...<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cmd1frp8ODU/UM4OlverIGI/AAAAAAAAAMU/nBbmqsTa2uk/s1600/LaetoliFootprints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cmd1frp8ODU/UM4OlverIGI/AAAAAAAAAMU/nBbmqsTa2uk/s640/LaetoliFootprints.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.getty.edu/conservation/publications_resources/newsletters/10_1/laetoli.html" target="_blank">The Getty Conservation Institute</a></div>
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They are the infamous Laetoli Footprints, excavated by Mary Leaky and Paul Abell in 1978. Located in Tanzania, some 43km from Olduvai Gorge, the footprint trail survives for 27m and is believed to represent 3 individuals. One is said to have walked in the footprints of another, possibly to or from a watering hole, a theory supported by a number of animal tracks preserved in the same way. </div>
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3.6 million years ago these early humans took these steps, but who were they? </div>
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This is a factor that is often contested, but, it is as a rule accepted that they are the footprints of <em>Australopithecus afarensis. </em>It is known that they were bipedal and the tracks indicate that they did not require their arms to balance them, in terms of floor support. With one set of prints being smaller than the other, it is thought that sexual dimorphism provides the answer, so one is male (larger) and the other female (smaller). It is thought that they walked across the wet ash leaving prints much like we do in sand or snow. However, before they were washed away they either set as the ash cooled, or another eruption occurred and the footprints were preserved. Recent studies suggest that they set as there is little evidence for volcanic activity, but this is still being explored and not yet widely accepted. </div>
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Like us they walked heel first and use the toes to balance and push themselves forward for the next step to be possible. The gaps between the prints are short, suggesting that they had shorter legs than we do, meaning they are early bipeds, yet to develop the means to walk long distances and greater speeds. </div>
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This perfectly captured moment has inspired many tales and art works, designed to determine why they were there, how they may have looked etc but by far my favourite is this one...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MO-nY9oAZ3k/UM4UEMqvK7I/AAAAAAAAAMo/OFBk9d2SOlg/s1600/LaetoliReconstruction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MO-nY9oAZ3k/UM4UEMqvK7I/AAAAAAAAAMo/OFBk9d2SOlg/s400/LaetoliReconstruction.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.23hq.com/JMSAZ/photo/5872774" target="_blank">JMSAZ at 23hq</a></div>
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It captures such a private and beautiful moment, allowing us all to remember the importance of maintaining the 'people' when studying our pasts.</div>
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This celebration of a moment is always poignant at this time of year, but, more so following the tragic loss of life at Sandy Hook Elementary School. I, like many, would like to extend my condolences to all those grieving families and friends. I am not in any way religious, however the sentiments of these words can extend beyond their biblical references.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-97Cs9pHJbjo/UM4V4i7SvJI/AAAAAAAAAMw/VFYNWEjD4I8/s1600/footprints-in-the-sand-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-97Cs9pHJbjo/UM4V4i7SvJI/AAAAAAAAAMw/VFYNWEjD4I8/s640/footprints-in-the-sand-1.jpg" width="474" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.emergence-international.org/2012/10/footprints-in-the-sand-daily-bread-1012012/" target="_blank">Emergence International</a></div>
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-48798761175846298442012-12-15T10:30:00.000-08:002012-12-15T10:30:01.478-08:00A Little More Festive FashionToday's artefact is an ornate and amazing find...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_UQRjFHavsc/UMn5SCEJ24I/AAAAAAAAAMA/LoRYd-qOCSY/s1600/MoldCape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_UQRjFHavsc/UMn5SCEJ24I/AAAAAAAAAMA/LoRYd-qOCSY/s400/MoldCape.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.britishmuseum.org.uk/" target="_blank">The British Museum</a></div>
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This golden cap was discovered in an ancient burial mound in 1833, by a group of workmen in Mold, Flinshire, Wales. The cape is beautifully decorated and extremely delicate, it has been painstakingly restored after being crushed upon discovery. It took many years for all the pieces to be reunited but the British Museum is confident that they now have it all. The cape was not found alone, some 300 beads were included in the chamber placed around the body, along with a coarse blanket and an urn containing burnt human remains. I am confident in saying that the cape was not everyday Bronze Age fashion, I am also confident that it was created for a woman due to its size. The usage of the cape will remain unknown, however, its' form is likely to restrict the movement of the person wearing it. This suggests that it has a formal and specific role within Bronze Age life, possibly in relation to religious and/or ceremonial activities. It is the only example known, which makes interpretation increasingly more difficult. Despite this I am sure like me, you are able to admire the work that has gone into its' creation and the wow factor that it produces. The cape is currently on display in Gallery 51 of the British Museum.</div>
Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-29766803584435654582012-12-14T10:30:00.000-08:002012-12-14T10:30:01.382-08:00Perfect PotsToday's artefact is a particular favourite of mine and has featured within work I have conducted...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R4w6Sl8qrU8/UMnxmXNHKRI/AAAAAAAAALs/a2IVCmm9cUM/s1600/LaTeneIsle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R4w6Sl8qrU8/UMnxmXNHKRI/AAAAAAAAALs/a2IVCmm9cUM/s640/LaTeneIsle.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Image taken from Moody. G. 2008
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<st1:place w:st="on">Isle of Thanet</st1:place> from Prehistory to the Norman
Conquest</i> Stroud: The History Press</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></div>
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This beautiful urn was discovered in Margate, Kent in 1924 by Arthur Rowe, he suggests in his recordings that the urn was restored, but as you can see from the image it is difficult to see where this occurs. <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The urn is a dark grey colour, almost black in
terms of the face, with the inner colouring slightly lighter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It measures some 17.5cm at the widest
surviving point, with a mouth diameter of c.12.5cm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where measurable the urn is c.5mm thick and
this appears to be consistent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Under the
neck there is a groove, this runs around the urn at a consistent distance from
the rim and above a punctured ‘dot’ pattern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Further to this the urn is decorated with curved ‘leaf shape’ pattern,
marked out with a groove and in filled with further puncturing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This appears distinctly La Tène I in nature.</span> Whether the urn was made in Thanet or imported cannot be determined within the available literature, but either way it suggests a strong and developed link between Margate and areas such as the Rhine. There is a suggestion that it was wheelmade, largely due to the consistency in thickness. Its' discovery in a Middle Iron Age contexts means for this to be the case it must be imported as the technology does not reach Britain until the Late Iron Age. The connection with the Rhine suggests the importance of waterways in communication, trade and exchange; it was clearly central to Iron Age life and is beautifully represented within this urn. This urn is without doubt one of my favourite artefacts, it represents all that I understand of Middle Iron Age Thanet and is a symbol of the connected world I believe the Britons were a part of. </div>
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-67422177247723236092012-12-13T10:00:00.000-08:002012-12-13T10:00:03.039-08:00This Little Piggy Went to MarketToday's artefact is an insight into a forgot people from the ancient world....<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CUMlzoylFfA/UMnq3JKE_TI/AAAAAAAAALQ/VXMCh0XQGQM/s1600/CypriotRattle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="355" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CUMlzoylFfA/UMnq3JKE_TI/AAAAAAAAALQ/VXMCh0XQGQM/s640/CypriotRattle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/">www.bbc.co.uk</a> </div>
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This little terracotta pig originates from Cyprus as is approximately 3000 years old. It has an interesting provenance, discovered by Mr Cesnola and presented to Mr James Bibby in 1878. Mr Cesnola was an archaeologist working in Cyprus on behalf of the British Museum and Mr Bibby was a Liverpool based ship owner. It is told that the pig was part of an assemblage gifted to Mr Bibby as a thank you for halting a riot on the island. So it seems this little pig, standing at only 8cm tall, has had a dramatic life...but what was it for? This is where it reveals an aspect of society that is often forgotten...children! It is believed that this pig and others like it are rattles, used as a means of entertaining and comforting young children, much like many of us do today. The little pig is hollow, but contains several beads allowing for noise to be created by little hands. The size of the artefact makes it perfect for children to handle, however, the material is fragile and not of the durable nature you would expect for children. It's survival suggests that the artefact was well curated during it's life, however the circumstance of its' discovery is unknown. Without such a context truly understanding the role of such artefacts is difficult, however, it does provide a potential record of the ancient world's youngest residents...perfect at Christmas!</div>
Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-58547619482621937682012-12-12T14:09:00.001-08:002012-12-12T14:09:05.756-08:00God's of WonderAnother double posting for you lucky lot! This time with a splash of Rome....<br />
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<em><u>December 11th</u></em><br />
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Today we have something a little bit special...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w0xssjMrbyE/UMj4fHBgVlI/AAAAAAAAAKk/btiKAY4fbYs/s1600/Minerva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w0xssjMrbyE/UMj4fHBgVlI/AAAAAAAAAKk/btiKAY4fbYs/s1600/Minerva.jpg" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.romanbaths.co.uk/">www.romanbaths.co.uk</a> </div>
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It is the head of the goddess Sulis Minerva, celebrated primarily in Bath, England. This statue is slightly larger than life, cast from bronze and carefully gilded in gold leaf. The head has clearly been removed in a deliberate act, thought to have occurred during the rise in Christianity and the banishing of Pagan belief. This goddess is particularly special as she is actually two goddesses merged into one, allowing for the sacred springs of Bath to be just that for local Britons and the settled Roman population. Sulis, arguably had the springs first, she was the local goddess and like Minerva stood for very similar things...they were both able to provide wisdom and success to their followers. This resulted in the Roman visitors combining the two, it meant the superstitious Romans could edge their bets, the local population would be happier and it showed some common ground between the two conflicting camps. This particular example is believed to have come from the temple situated near the springs, which is why it is so ornate in comparison to other examples of Sulis Minerva sculpture. She is also only known within the region of Bath, with similar goddesses taking her role elsewhere in Britain.</div>
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<em><u>December 12th</u></em></div>
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Today is carrying on the theme of religion in the Empire...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z1W5z9UO1Vs/UMj8Beb5vkI/AAAAAAAAAK4/gm2y6XvLZow/s1600/temple_of_mithras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z1W5z9UO1Vs/UMj8Beb5vkI/AAAAAAAAAK4/gm2y6XvLZow/s400/temple_of_mithras.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/" target="_blank">English Heritage</a></div>
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It is the Temple of Mithras, Carrawburgh, Hadrian's Wall. There are three such Temples known across the length of Hadrian's Wall and the cult of Mithras is well known within the Empire. It is believed to have been borrowed by the Romans from those in the East, probably Persia, though this is not certain. It seems to have been a fairly secretive Cult with certain rites having to be achieved before cult practice can begin, how much of this is true is unknown as there are few detailed references relating to Mithras. It is known that he was a god of honour, truth and courage and as such held a strong appeal for solider and traders alike. It also said that slaves were keen to be involved in the Cult, maybe he provided them a source of encouragement and belief when the world seemed to be against them. It is clear as to why he would be favoured on Hadrian's Wall, it would have been a cold, lonely and hostile place, the very edge of the Empire and forever away from the lands that the soldiers may have called home. Much like the slaves, they would need comfort and words that could stir courage to ensure honour and bravery. </div>
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-63869851333026937182012-12-10T14:12:00.000-08:002012-12-10T14:12:58.070-08:00Magical MomentsToday is a far more modern artefact, that was chosen in light of the recent decision to create <a href="http://www.army.mod.uk/news/24654.aspx" target="_blank">Flanders Field Memorial</a> in London to mark the centinary anniversaries of World War I.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FCtJPCrFq4/UMZW52C3FrI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/m8vVpru75ac/s1600/Distinguished+Conduct+Medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FCtJPCrFq4/UMZW52C3FrI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/m8vVpru75ac/s320/Distinguished+Conduct+Medal.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>
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Image Taken from <a href="http://www.finds.org.uk/" target="_blank">Portable Antiquities Scheme</a></div>
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This medal is a Distinguished Conduct Medal, which was issued to Sgt. G.H. Humber of the Royal Field Artillery in 1919. It was discovered by a metal detector club in Surrey who were keen for it to be reunited with its' family. Sgt Humber was born in 1889 in the Isle of White and sadly died there in 1985, before the discovery of his medal. The Club and PAS issued details of the medals discovery in local newspapers in both Surrey and the Isle of White. This answered many questions and reunited the medal and its' family. Sgt Humber was active throughout the war, leading men in 1915, 1916, 1917 and 1918, in various battles in a brave and honourable manner. The Isle of White newspapers were contacted by three of his grandchildren and the story continued to unravel. Before they married, he and his wife Bessie lived with her parents on Batchelors Farm, near to the find spot. He is thought to have found work in the area around 1920 and this is possibly when his medal was lost. Before his death he was presented with a substitute medal, however I can only imagine how is family felt knowing the original had been discovered. This artefact is a powerful one, capable of evolking all manner of emotions for all manner of people and able to ensure that the actions of the fallen and those that returned are never forgotten. The Flanders Field Memorial in London is set to enhance this for many years to come.</div>
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-29598270502752612422012-12-10T13:21:00.000-08:002012-12-10T13:21:11.332-08:00An Iron Age WeekendHello everyone, I was away for the weekend and had posts all set-up ready to go live by themselves, but technology failed me....so here they are!<br />
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<u><em>December 8th</em></u><br />
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War, Peace or Other<br />
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Today we have an artefact that almost always immediately shouts of war....<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yHV3oOEMxZg/UMZGcyIGzwI/AAAAAAAAAJo/Ttpu-UItdfU/s1600/JackfieldSword.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yHV3oOEMxZg/UMZGcyIGzwI/AAAAAAAAAJo/Ttpu-UItdfU/s320/JackfieldSword.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.shropshire.gov.uk/museums.nsf/open/9A58D6A9B574D1F78025747B0051DD78" target="_blank">Shropshire Council</a></div>
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It's the Jackfield Sword, found in the River Severn, near Telford in the 1970's. The sword dates to the Early Iron Age and is a relatively rare find, made of bronze. The sword is leaf shaped and in beautiful condition considering it's age. The hilt is missing, but the fittings are in place, suggesting that it was made of organic material. It is likely that the wood or bone would have been carved in order to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the sword. During the Early Iron Age there is little evidence for warfare and the deposition of this sword in a river furthers such notions. It is one of a number of bronze and iron artefacts that have been found in watery deposits and as such it is believed that they have a ritual significance, potentially relating to a lost cosmology. It is often said that ritual is used by archaeologists as a means to avoid artefacts and sites that do not fit into our plans, however, there surely had to be a level of belief and tradition. It features in cultures all over the world, so why not in prehistory?</div>
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<em><u>December 9th</u></em></div>
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Today is the turn of something a little bit different....</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQ2UQKHKo1A/UMZMhrjmFfI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/pknHjf8KRQc/s1600/IronAgeComb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQ2UQKHKo1A/UMZMhrjmFfI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/pknHjf8KRQc/s400/IronAgeComb.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.finds.org.uk/" target="_blank">Portable Antiquities Scheme</a></div>
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It is the beautiful Tanworth Comb, discovered in Warwickshire, 2006. Finds like this traditionally would be lost to the record, until the Portable Antiquities Scheme came to being. This comb is a metal detecting find and its' finder did the right thing in taking it for study and identification. It is dated to the very end of the Iron Age or very early Roman Period. The comb is made of copper alloy, with both the front and back decorated with a detailed pattern. Through study it has been determined that the decoration was cast rather than added after the creation process. The teeth of the comb are fairly wide apart which suggests that it was not meant for human hair, but, instead it may be for the grooming of animals such as horses. This is another rare find and serves as a perfect example of what can happen when the world of archaeology and the metal detectoring enthusiasts come together. It also featured on Britain's Secret Treasures, Summer 2012.</div>
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8455952337710712729.post-45939064904138201622012-12-07T12:00:00.000-08:002012-12-07T12:00:00.231-08:00It's the season to be jolly...So today we have an artefact that is a must for all those office parties....<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPRSkcq7IOc/UL-1Kkp-70I/AAAAAAAAAJM/aSUfGVaiTvg/s1600/DrinkingHorn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPRSkcq7IOc/UL-1Kkp-70I/AAAAAAAAAJM/aSUfGVaiTvg/s400/DrinkingHorn.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Image taken from <a href="http://www.britishmuseum.org/explore/highlights/highlight_objects/pe_mla/p/pair_of_drinking_horns.aspx" target="_blank">The British Museum</a></div>
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It is of course the drinking horn! With no way of putting them down it's easy to see why their Viking owners had such a reputation for being drunkards. This example was however, found in an Anglo-Saxon context, along with a matching horn in a princely burial. Discovered in Taplow, Buckinghamshire, the auroch horns are larger than their Scandinavian counterparts and suggest that this worldly Prince knew how to party! Their silver gilding suggests he had a talented metalworker and money was no object to him either, between the metalwork, carving and cost of the animal, these were expensive party pieces. But they were nothing compared to Scandinavian equivalents...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kU_kVpqOJzA/UL-3Pq1bXpI/AAAAAAAAAJU/_5-ubvanLo0/s1600/ScandinavianDrinkingHorn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kU_kVpqOJzA/UL-3Pq1bXpI/AAAAAAAAAJU/_5-ubvanLo0/s400/ScandinavianDrinkingHorn.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Image Taken from <a href="http://journals.worldnomads.com/connie_elman/photo/5282/141058/Denmark/A-viking-drinking-horn-National-Museum-Copenhagen" target="_blank">World Nomads</a></div>
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The above example is far smaller, but also far more ornate. Scandinavian examples, like this one from Denmark, are often decorated with Norse gods and religious myth, confirming their association with celebration. Such artefacts are likely to have be utilised during feasts and festivals to ensure a steady supply of mead was available to their owner. They are generally seen as being a male artefact, but there is nothing to truly support this notion. Our Princely example is sixth century AD in date, however, drinking horns were not a sudden invention, they were recorded by Tacitus when he encountered Germanic Tribes. He describes them in a similar vein to our Princely examples, they were clearly seen as hit then as Roman examples are also known.</div>
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It seems that the drinking horn is still desirable, in searching for a suitable example to share with you I came across website after website selling modern examples based on those of the past. So maybe you can take on to the office party after-all....</div>
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Cezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11438546693639857456noreply@blogger.com0