Materials and Techniques of Antiquity, Archeometrics and Archaeology of Buildings

Teacher(s)

Driessen Jan; Verslype Laurent;

Language

French
> English-friendly

Prerequisites

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Main themes

This course introduces students to the raw materials used in material and artistic production in ancient times and to the technological processes used to create them. Use is made of archaeological sources (relics, objects, tools and iconography) and ancient writers. The course is intended to help students understand the terminology used in Antiquity and the working environment of its artists and artisans. Emphasis is also placed on the social repercussions of new technologies on the societies that created them. Students are also taught the basics of Archaeometry and of building archaeology.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :
1	The aim of this course is to teach students the fundamentals of the practical techniques used in Antiquity on different raw materials such as stone, clay and metal and also about the tools and processes that were used to change the original appearance of these raw materials. The course also raises the issue of the physical effects of technology on cultures and societies, examining technology as social production. Students are also taught the basics of Archaeometry and of building archaeology.

Content

In this course students acquire the ability to identify the basic materials, tools and physical qualities within the creative cycle of objects (chaîne opératoire) and to understand the sequence of manipulations leading to the finished product, both where archaeological remains and major works of art are concerned. Essential is the notion of 'chaîne opératoire' and stone, clay, metal and other materials (perishable or not) are discussed. The course also introduces the basic tenets of Archaeometry and discusses the contribution of studies carried out by science laboratories in the field of Archaeology, in particular Natural and Earth Sciences and characterization and dating techniques. As part of the introduction to archeometry, a more practice-based approach is fostered. The course also pays attention to built structures or remains and the study methods and problems involved based on the technical observation of the materials used, worked and assembled, and styles. Several field trips and visits to museums and laboratories that vary on a yearly basis are organized and constitute mandatory teaching activities.

Teaching methods

Class with PowerPoint, visits.

Evaluation methods

Oral exams, abstract of readings and visits.

Bibliography

Liste bibliographique et abondants documents iconographiques fournis par les enseignants sur la plate-forme Moodle.

Faculty or entity

EHAC