Archaeometry 37 (1)

Outlines the philosophical and statistical background to an approach thought to provide a logical and coherent framework within which to make inferences on the basis of both data and a priori expert knowledge. Adoption of a Bayesian framework is considered timely in the light of recent developments in numerical methods which have solved many previous implementation problems. Many questions of archaeological interest, which require the use of complex statistical models, are being investigated using this methodology. A variety of recently published examples from a range of archaeological areas are used here to illustrate the type of questions that can be answered and the nature of the methodologies used. Comparisons are made with the results obtained using more traditional statistical techniques.

Lipid residues from two Late Saxon-MEM ceramic vessels recovered from excavations at Raunds have been investigated by high temperature gas chromatography (GC) and GC/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The solvent extracts of sherds sampled from different points on each vessel were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively and compounds were identified which were characteristic of beeswax and animal fat. Furthermore, by determining the sites of accumulation of the specific lipid types and their concentrationsin different parts of the vessels it can be inferred that the beeswax was added to the vessels prior to the addition of the fat. It was concluded that the two vessels performed different functions in antiquity.

The possibility of lead isotope fractionation in ancient lead production is examined. Kinetic theory relating to isotopic fractionation in non-equilibrium evaporation is considered, and the feasibility of the alteration of lead isotope abundance ratios in ore roasting and smelting is assessed. Previous experimental work is shown to have been inconclusive and conclusions are drawn on the need for further research to qualify the possible extent of fractionation in practice.

IMH