Understanding Archaeological Preservation: Techniques, Challenges, and Importance
Archaeological preservation is a crucial practice within the field of archaeology that aims to protect and maintain the integrity of archaeological sites and materials. This article explores the methods and significance of archaeological preservation, distinguishing it from emergency archaeology, and highlighting the challenges faced by archaeologists in their efforts to preserve invaluable historical artifacts.
What is Archaeological Preservation?
Archaeological preservation involves the careful and thoughtful management of archaeological sites and materials to protect them from deterioration and destruction. Unlike traditional excavation, which often uncovers and exposes artifacts to the elements, preservation archaeology focuses on leaving the archaeological deposit in situ as much as possible. This approach allows future archaeologists to utilize superior tools and technologies, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the site.
The Role of Preservation Archaeology
Preservation archaeology primarily involves the identification of the size and area of deposits using techniques such as ground-penetrating radar. This method allows archaeologists to map and understand the spatial and temporal context of the site without the need for immediate excavation. By preserving sites in their original state, archaeologists can better document and analyze the physical and cultural contexts of the past, ensuring that future research can benefit from advanced technologies and methodologies.
Comparison with Emergency Archaeology
Emergency archaeology, also known as rescue archaeology, can be considered a form of preservation in its own right. This practice involves salvaging archaeological material from sites that are threatened by new construction, dam building, or road projects. While emergency archaeology often results in the immediate removal and analysis of artifacts, it aims to save the cultural heritage that would otherwise be lost due to human activity.
Professional Archival Conservation
Archaeological conservation is a specialized field dedicated to the preservation of archaeological heritage. From large-scale features such as sites and structures to artifacts, conservationists use a range of techniques to protect the integrity of these materials. Three main types of preservation have been discovered by archaeologists:
Preservation in Dry Environments: Artifacts in dry environments can remain stable for long periods, providing valuable information about past cultures. Preservation in Cold Environments: Frozen or permafrost environments can halt the decay of organic materials, preserving them for future study. Preservation in Waterlogged Environments: Dense, anaerobic waterlogged deposits can protect organic materials exceptionally well, such as those found in waterlogged wood and bone.The Work of an Archaeologist
The role of an archaeologist in preservation involves a delicate and intricate process. Once an archaeological site has been disturbed by human activity, such as digging by archaeologists, the artifacts become exposed to new environmental conditions that can lead to deterioration. Cleaners and conservators are responsible for stabilizing and joining artifacts, as well as studying them to add further information to the overall context of the site.
Challenges in Archaeological Preservation
Pottery: Pots can suffer from breakage, soluble and insoluble salts, chemical deterioration, and insoluble salts. Glass: Glass is prone to both chemical deterioration and breakage, and hidden stains can form in corrosion crust. Stone and Buildings: Stone materials can be damaged by soluble and insoluble salts, leading to breakage. Metals: Metals can corrode, particularly iron and copper, which produce damaging post-examination products. Wood and Plant Material: Waterlogged organic materials can either dry out or remain stable, but they are often fragile and susceptible to breakage. Bones: Waterlogged bones are particularly fragile but can be stable in certain conditions.Conclusion
Archaeological preservation is a vital practice that ensures the legacy of our past is not lost to the ravages of time and human activity. By employing preservation techniques, archaeological sites and materials can be safeguarded for future generations to study and learn from. The work of archaeologist-conservators is crucial in understanding and protecting these invaluable historical records.