Curator of the Chalcolithic and Bronze Age collections at National Museums Scotland. In 2018 I submitted my PhD on the deliberate destruction of Bronze Age metalwork in South West England. In 2019 I co-edited a volume entitled: Objects of the Past in the Past. Investigating the significance of earlier artefacts in later contexts. To see some of what I get up to, follow me on Twitter (@mgknight24) or check out my WordPress page (alifeinfragments.wordpress.com) where I posted regularly about my PhD. Address: Edinburgh, Scotland
The destruction and deposition of metalwork is a widely recognised phenomenon across Bronze Age E... more The destruction and deposition of metalwork is a widely recognised phenomenon across Bronze Age Europe. Weapons were decommissioned and thrown into rivers; axes were fragmented and piled in hoards; and ornaments were crushed, contorted and placed in certain landscapes. Interpretation of this material is often considered in terms of whether such acts should be considered ritual offerings, or functional acts for storing, scrapping and recycling the metal. This book approaches this debate from a fresh perspective, by focusing on how the metalwork was destroyed and deposited as a means to understand the reasons behind the process.
To achieve this, this study draws on experimental archaeology, as well as developing a framework for assessing what can be considered deliberate destruction. Understanding these processes not only helps us to recognise how destruction happened, but also gives us insights into the individuals involved in these practices. Through an examination of metalwork from south-west Britain, it is possible to observe the complexities involved at a localised level in the acts of destruction and deposition, as well as how they were linked to people and places. This case study is used to consider the social role of destruction and deposition more broadly in the Bronze Age, highlighting how it transformed over time and space.
How did past communities view, understand and communicate their pasts? And how can we, as archaeo... more How did past communities view, understand and communicate their pasts? And how can we, as archaeologists, understand this? In recent years these questions have been approached through studies of the extended occupation and use of landscapes, monuments and artefacts to explore concepts of time and memory. But what of objects that were already old in the past? Interpretations for these items have ranged from the discard of scrap to objects of veneration. Evidence from a range of periods would suggest objects of the past were an important part of many later societies that encountered them, either as heirlooms with remembered histories or rediscovered curiosities from a more distant past.
For the first time, this volume brings together a range of case studies in which objects of the past were encountered and reappropriated. It follows a conference session at the Theoretical Archaeological Group in Cardiff 2017, in which historians, archaeologists, heritage professionals and commercial archaeologists gathered to discuss this topic on a broad (pre)historical scale, highlighting similarities and contrast in depositional practices and reactions to relics of the past in different periods. Through case studies spanning the Bronze Age through to the 18th century AD, this volume presents new research demonstrating that the reappropriation of these already old objects was not anomalous, but instead represents a practice that recurs throughout (pre)history.
Co-authored with Theresa Ormrod and Susan Pearce.
Bronze Age metalwork has always caught the int... more Co-authored with Theresa Ormrod and Susan Pearce.
Bronze Age metalwork has always caught the interest of archaeologists, largely due to the very large volume and variety of objects that is still being recovered on an almost daily basis. Regional catalogues have been repeatedly undertaken in an attempt to manage the sheer wealth of data and analyse the implications. In 1983, Susan Pearce published such a study of south western Britain (BAR 120, 1983), contributing a catalogue of 896 find spots. This discussion embraced the wider understanding of metalworking in the region, how this fitted with traditions across the rest of the country and the European continent, and how the metalwork was integrated into prehistoric society. This volume is intended to bring the 1983 corpus of south western Bronze Age metalwork finds up to date by documenting finds made in the four counties between January 1980 and July 2014.The intention here is not to undertake a full re-examination of the south western metalwork and its context - such a discussion is beyond the confines of this publication - but instead to suggest some of the broad parameters within which such a discussion might take place, and to point to several key themes that have become prominent in Bronze Age studies since 1983 and to some that remain relatively underexplored.
Evidence from the prehistoric archaeological record clearly
shows that ancient societies had a se... more Evidence from the prehistoric archaeological record clearly shows that ancient societies had a sense of and engaged with their own histories, be it by reusing, re-appropriating or recreating past material culture. The affective qualities of materials, places and even human remains would have enabled people to remember and connect with aspects of their immediate and more distant pasts. In some cases, this may have elicited specific emotive responses, similar to how nostalgic triggers operate today. Nostalgia is not a word commonly used by archaeologists, but through exploring the materiality and sensory affect of objects and spaces in the past, we can consider that what we deal with archaeologically may have held nostalgic qualities.
In 1877, a hoard of nine copper alloy objects was recovered from a peat bog at Poolewe, Scotland,... more In 1877, a hoard of nine copper alloy objects was recovered from a peat bog at Poolewe, Scotland, including axeheads, rings and an ornament. For the first time since its discovery, this article publishes the hoard in its entirety, including an assessment of typological features, full illustration and metallurgical analysis. Components of the hoard are characteristic of the British Llyn Fawr / Earliest Iron Age period (800–600 BC) suggesting the date of deposition, which is confirmed by a radiocarbon date from the wooden haft of an axehead. However, set in the broader context of Scotland and Britain during this period, it is suggested that this hoard in fact represents the last vestiges of the Late Bronze Age hoarding practice in Scotland.
Broken and damaged Bronze Age metalwork has long been studied, but there is no methodology for id... more Broken and damaged Bronze Age metalwork has long been studied, but there is no methodology for identifying signs of intentional versus unintentional action. Past approaches have tended to rely on assumptions about how such finds were damaged. Drawing on the material properties of copper alloys, as well as on recent research into wear-analysis and experimental fragmentation of bronze implements, this article presents a working methodology for identifying deliberate damage. Seven ‘Destruction Indicators’ are presented, with associated criteria, for making informed interpretations about archaeological artefacts. These contribute to a ‘Damage Ranking System’, an index for ranking damage on Bronze Age copper alloy objects based on the likelihood that damage was intentional. Two case studies illustrate how this system can be applied.
The deliberate destruction of Late Bronze Age swords and spearheads has been widely recognised ac... more The deliberate destruction of Late Bronze Age swords and spearheads has been widely recognised across Europe. This observation has typically relied on the obvious nature of the destruction, such as the bending of blades or the crushing of sockets, and the association of multiple broken pieces. These obvious acts have been used to interpret the material in sacred or profane terms without due consideration of how the objects were destroyed. This paper presents experimental research exploring how swords and spearheads may have been intentionally damaged in the Bronze Age. The results of these experiments are compared with artefacts from across Britain, making it possible to better identify and analyse deliberately destroyed objects. A series of implications for how one may more accurately interpret the wider archaeological record is presented.
Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 2018
In 1999, the late Professor Charles Thomas donated a Middle Bronze Age spearhead to the National ... more In 1999, the late Professor Charles Thomas donated a Middle Bronze Age spearhead to the National Museum collection. This spearhead came with a label indicating that it was part of the pennant taken into the Battle of Flodden by Robert Chisholme in 1513. This paper investigates the likelihood that such a claimed association could have any basis in truth, as well as briefly contributing some thoughts on the discovery of already ancient objects in the past.
Proceedings of the Devon Archaeological Society, 2018
Two pieces of Bronze Age metalwork have recently been acquired by Torquay Museum: an Early Bronze... more Two pieces of Bronze Age metalwork have recently been acquired by Torquay Museum: an Early Bronze Age axe and a Middle Bronze Age rapier. Both were found in the Broadsands area, Paignton. The form, function and role of the objects are analysed, and the landscape context in which they were deposited is considered. The axe is shown to be of a type previously unknown from the South West and is of a potentially exotic nature, whilst the rapier contributes to a growing number now known from Devon.
Objects of the Past in the Past. Investigating the significance of earlier artefacts in later contexts, 2019
The deposition of earlier Bronze Age objects in Late Bronze Age contexts has been recently recogn... more The deposition of earlier Bronze Age objects in Late Bronze Age contexts has been recently recognised and recorded for southern England, but the phenomenon is not confined to that region. This paper expands the corpus of such hoards by including a further 11 case studies from northern England, Scotland and Wales. Some associations represent heavily-used or worn material that had been in extended circulation. Other associations contribute to better understanding the prolonged typologies of certain objects and the importance of certain places in the Bronze Age landscape. Overall, this paper suggests we should consider the possibility that some multi-period hoards are genuine, rather than doubtful, associations.
Objects of the Past in the Past. Investigating the significance of earlier artefacts in later contexts, 2019
This paper explores some of the theories surrounding how people of the past thought about and eng... more This paper explores some of the theories surrounding how people of the past thought about and engaged with objects of their own pasts from throughout time.
The deliberate destruction of socketed axeheads is a common feature among Late Bronze Age finds. ... more The deliberate destruction of socketed axeheads is a common feature among Late Bronze Age finds. It is particularly noticeable in the numerous single finds and hoards that have been recovered from Cornwall recently. Interpretations have tended to focus on why these objects were damaged, with little understanding of how this was undertaken. This contribution summarises a series of experimental activities conducted on modern replica axeheads based on an example from St Buryan to better understand the practice of deliberate destruction. The results are then compared with prehistoric metalwork from Cornwall. It is argued that by understanding the processes by which these objects were destroyed, one can better interpret the technological processes and the people that were involved in preparing the objects for deposition. This paper closes with some suggestions for future research into experimental destruction.
Evidence for Bronze Age metalworking is generally sparse, not nearly representing the volume of m... more Evidence for Bronze Age metalworking is generally sparse, not nearly representing the volume of metal artefacts archaeologists have recovered. This paper uses published and unpublished data from Devon and Cornwall to assess the potential role of metalworkers in Bronze Age society within local and national traditions. Devon and Cornwall are of particular interest as these counties have an abundance of tin, which is necessary for bronze production, and had continental trade links, which may have increased the significance of the metalsmith. Twenty-two sites have been identified where metalworking evidence is associated with occupational contexts. This is supplemented by a further eight findspots where metalwork has been found in an occupational context and six findspots where Bronze Age metalworking evidence has been found without a specific context. The presence of metalworking craftware associated with settlements indicates the possibility for permanent or semi-permanent metalworking structures, which may have held an extended significance. The sites are then discussed in relation to past and ongoing debates. Overall, this paper offers an important contribution to the current understanding of how a metalsmith may have operated within prehistoric society, using the most current evidence, which provides a base from which to develop future research.
Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 2021
The hoard of bronze weapons found in 1961 at Peelhill Farm in South Lanarkshire remains one of th... more The hoard of bronze weapons found in 1961 at Peelhill Farm in South Lanarkshire remains one of the most remarkable discoveries of Late Bronze Age metalwork from Scotland, its importance reflected in the detailed account of the find published by John Coles and Jack Scott in 1963. In the present paper, the contents, location and significance of the discovery are reassessed in the light of more recent approaches to research on hoards. In particular, the renewed investigation provided fresh insights into the use and treatment of the artefacts prior to their deposition, while the local topography may have influenced the choice of location to a greater degree than previously assumed. Radiocarbon dates indicate a likely date in the 9th century BC. Taken together, Peelhill Farm and the related find of metalwork from Duddingston Loch, Edinburgh, comprise the northernmost representatives of a group of weapon-dominated hoards mainly recorded in southern Britain. In view of the bias towards martial equipment in their composition, it is argued that the evidence of unrepaired impact marks, and deliberate damage by bending, breaking and burning, all assume greater significance than hitherto recognised. Taken together with what may be assumed to be intentional placement of the artefacts into a boggy setting, the deposition at Peelhill Farm is interpreted as a weapon sacrifice after a warlike event rather than as a ‘scrap hoard’ as once thought.
Hoarding and deposition in Europe from later prehistory to the medieval period – finds in context, 2022
Research into Bronze Age and Iron Age metalwork hoards has increasingly noted that these are the ... more Research into Bronze Age and Iron Age metalwork hoards has increasingly noted that these are the result of accumulation processes. Less attention has been paid to the time over which these hoards were gathered and how we might identify this. This paper highlights a series of tools for recognising time-depth within Bronze Age and Iron Age hoards in Britain, supported by case studies. We can recognise that accumulating objects for a hoard over time was a widespread practice, with some objects rediscovered and incorporated into later hoards, whilst others were retained and curated. This has implications for how we might approach and interpret hoards. Rather than static events representing a single moment in time, we can view some hoards as the result of a long-term process of accumulation.
De L’escaut au nil. Bric-à-brac en hommage à Eugène Warmenbol à l’occasion de son 65e anniversaire, 2022
An exploration of practices and patterns of metalwork deposition during the Late Bronze Age in Sc... more An exploration of practices and patterns of metalwork deposition during the Late Bronze Age in Scotland.
The destruction and deposition of metalwork is a widely recognised phenomenon across Bronze Age E... more The destruction and deposition of metalwork is a widely recognised phenomenon across Bronze Age Europe. Weapons were decommissioned and thrown into rivers; axes were fragmented and piled in hoards; and ornaments were crushed, contorted and placed in certain landscapes. Interpretation of this material is often considered in terms of whether such acts should be considered ritual offerings, or functional acts for storing, scrapping and recycling the metal. This book approaches this debate from a fresh perspective, by focusing on how the metalwork was destroyed and deposited as a means to understand the reasons behind the process.
To achieve this, this study draws on experimental archaeology, as well as developing a framework for assessing what can be considered deliberate destruction. Understanding these processes not only helps us to recognise how destruction happened, but also gives us insights into the individuals involved in these practices. Through an examination of metalwork from south-west Britain, it is possible to observe the complexities involved at a localised level in the acts of destruction and deposition, as well as how they were linked to people and places. This case study is used to consider the social role of destruction and deposition more broadly in the Bronze Age, highlighting how it transformed over time and space.
How did past communities view, understand and communicate their pasts? And how can we, as archaeo... more How did past communities view, understand and communicate their pasts? And how can we, as archaeologists, understand this? In recent years these questions have been approached through studies of the extended occupation and use of landscapes, monuments and artefacts to explore concepts of time and memory. But what of objects that were already old in the past? Interpretations for these items have ranged from the discard of scrap to objects of veneration. Evidence from a range of periods would suggest objects of the past were an important part of many later societies that encountered them, either as heirlooms with remembered histories or rediscovered curiosities from a more distant past.
For the first time, this volume brings together a range of case studies in which objects of the past were encountered and reappropriated. It follows a conference session at the Theoretical Archaeological Group in Cardiff 2017, in which historians, archaeologists, heritage professionals and commercial archaeologists gathered to discuss this topic on a broad (pre)historical scale, highlighting similarities and contrast in depositional practices and reactions to relics of the past in different periods. Through case studies spanning the Bronze Age through to the 18th century AD, this volume presents new research demonstrating that the reappropriation of these already old objects was not anomalous, but instead represents a practice that recurs throughout (pre)history.
Co-authored with Theresa Ormrod and Susan Pearce.
Bronze Age metalwork has always caught the int... more Co-authored with Theresa Ormrod and Susan Pearce.
Bronze Age metalwork has always caught the interest of archaeologists, largely due to the very large volume and variety of objects that is still being recovered on an almost daily basis. Regional catalogues have been repeatedly undertaken in an attempt to manage the sheer wealth of data and analyse the implications. In 1983, Susan Pearce published such a study of south western Britain (BAR 120, 1983), contributing a catalogue of 896 find spots. This discussion embraced the wider understanding of metalworking in the region, how this fitted with traditions across the rest of the country and the European continent, and how the metalwork was integrated into prehistoric society. This volume is intended to bring the 1983 corpus of south western Bronze Age metalwork finds up to date by documenting finds made in the four counties between January 1980 and July 2014.The intention here is not to undertake a full re-examination of the south western metalwork and its context - such a discussion is beyond the confines of this publication - but instead to suggest some of the broad parameters within which such a discussion might take place, and to point to several key themes that have become prominent in Bronze Age studies since 1983 and to some that remain relatively underexplored.
Evidence from the prehistoric archaeological record clearly
shows that ancient societies had a se... more Evidence from the prehistoric archaeological record clearly shows that ancient societies had a sense of and engaged with their own histories, be it by reusing, re-appropriating or recreating past material culture. The affective qualities of materials, places and even human remains would have enabled people to remember and connect with aspects of their immediate and more distant pasts. In some cases, this may have elicited specific emotive responses, similar to how nostalgic triggers operate today. Nostalgia is not a word commonly used by archaeologists, but through exploring the materiality and sensory affect of objects and spaces in the past, we can consider that what we deal with archaeologically may have held nostalgic qualities.
In 1877, a hoard of nine copper alloy objects was recovered from a peat bog at Poolewe, Scotland,... more In 1877, a hoard of nine copper alloy objects was recovered from a peat bog at Poolewe, Scotland, including axeheads, rings and an ornament. For the first time since its discovery, this article publishes the hoard in its entirety, including an assessment of typological features, full illustration and metallurgical analysis. Components of the hoard are characteristic of the British Llyn Fawr / Earliest Iron Age period (800–600 BC) suggesting the date of deposition, which is confirmed by a radiocarbon date from the wooden haft of an axehead. However, set in the broader context of Scotland and Britain during this period, it is suggested that this hoard in fact represents the last vestiges of the Late Bronze Age hoarding practice in Scotland.
Broken and damaged Bronze Age metalwork has long been studied, but there is no methodology for id... more Broken and damaged Bronze Age metalwork has long been studied, but there is no methodology for identifying signs of intentional versus unintentional action. Past approaches have tended to rely on assumptions about how such finds were damaged. Drawing on the material properties of copper alloys, as well as on recent research into wear-analysis and experimental fragmentation of bronze implements, this article presents a working methodology for identifying deliberate damage. Seven ‘Destruction Indicators’ are presented, with associated criteria, for making informed interpretations about archaeological artefacts. These contribute to a ‘Damage Ranking System’, an index for ranking damage on Bronze Age copper alloy objects based on the likelihood that damage was intentional. Two case studies illustrate how this system can be applied.
The deliberate destruction of Late Bronze Age swords and spearheads has been widely recognised ac... more The deliberate destruction of Late Bronze Age swords and spearheads has been widely recognised across Europe. This observation has typically relied on the obvious nature of the destruction, such as the bending of blades or the crushing of sockets, and the association of multiple broken pieces. These obvious acts have been used to interpret the material in sacred or profane terms without due consideration of how the objects were destroyed. This paper presents experimental research exploring how swords and spearheads may have been intentionally damaged in the Bronze Age. The results of these experiments are compared with artefacts from across Britain, making it possible to better identify and analyse deliberately destroyed objects. A series of implications for how one may more accurately interpret the wider archaeological record is presented.
Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 2018
In 1999, the late Professor Charles Thomas donated a Middle Bronze Age spearhead to the National ... more In 1999, the late Professor Charles Thomas donated a Middle Bronze Age spearhead to the National Museum collection. This spearhead came with a label indicating that it was part of the pennant taken into the Battle of Flodden by Robert Chisholme in 1513. This paper investigates the likelihood that such a claimed association could have any basis in truth, as well as briefly contributing some thoughts on the discovery of already ancient objects in the past.
Proceedings of the Devon Archaeological Society, 2018
Two pieces of Bronze Age metalwork have recently been acquired by Torquay Museum: an Early Bronze... more Two pieces of Bronze Age metalwork have recently been acquired by Torquay Museum: an Early Bronze Age axe and a Middle Bronze Age rapier. Both were found in the Broadsands area, Paignton. The form, function and role of the objects are analysed, and the landscape context in which they were deposited is considered. The axe is shown to be of a type previously unknown from the South West and is of a potentially exotic nature, whilst the rapier contributes to a growing number now known from Devon.
Objects of the Past in the Past. Investigating the significance of earlier artefacts in later contexts, 2019
The deposition of earlier Bronze Age objects in Late Bronze Age contexts has been recently recogn... more The deposition of earlier Bronze Age objects in Late Bronze Age contexts has been recently recognised and recorded for southern England, but the phenomenon is not confined to that region. This paper expands the corpus of such hoards by including a further 11 case studies from northern England, Scotland and Wales. Some associations represent heavily-used or worn material that had been in extended circulation. Other associations contribute to better understanding the prolonged typologies of certain objects and the importance of certain places in the Bronze Age landscape. Overall, this paper suggests we should consider the possibility that some multi-period hoards are genuine, rather than doubtful, associations.
Objects of the Past in the Past. Investigating the significance of earlier artefacts in later contexts, 2019
This paper explores some of the theories surrounding how people of the past thought about and eng... more This paper explores some of the theories surrounding how people of the past thought about and engaged with objects of their own pasts from throughout time.
The deliberate destruction of socketed axeheads is a common feature among Late Bronze Age finds. ... more The deliberate destruction of socketed axeheads is a common feature among Late Bronze Age finds. It is particularly noticeable in the numerous single finds and hoards that have been recovered from Cornwall recently. Interpretations have tended to focus on why these objects were damaged, with little understanding of how this was undertaken. This contribution summarises a series of experimental activities conducted on modern replica axeheads based on an example from St Buryan to better understand the practice of deliberate destruction. The results are then compared with prehistoric metalwork from Cornwall. It is argued that by understanding the processes by which these objects were destroyed, one can better interpret the technological processes and the people that were involved in preparing the objects for deposition. This paper closes with some suggestions for future research into experimental destruction.
Evidence for Bronze Age metalworking is generally sparse, not nearly representing the volume of m... more Evidence for Bronze Age metalworking is generally sparse, not nearly representing the volume of metal artefacts archaeologists have recovered. This paper uses published and unpublished data from Devon and Cornwall to assess the potential role of metalworkers in Bronze Age society within local and national traditions. Devon and Cornwall are of particular interest as these counties have an abundance of tin, which is necessary for bronze production, and had continental trade links, which may have increased the significance of the metalsmith. Twenty-two sites have been identified where metalworking evidence is associated with occupational contexts. This is supplemented by a further eight findspots where metalwork has been found in an occupational context and six findspots where Bronze Age metalworking evidence has been found without a specific context. The presence of metalworking craftware associated with settlements indicates the possibility for permanent or semi-permanent metalworking structures, which may have held an extended significance. The sites are then discussed in relation to past and ongoing debates. Overall, this paper offers an important contribution to the current understanding of how a metalsmith may have operated within prehistoric society, using the most current evidence, which provides a base from which to develop future research.
Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 2021
The hoard of bronze weapons found in 1961 at Peelhill Farm in South Lanarkshire remains one of th... more The hoard of bronze weapons found in 1961 at Peelhill Farm in South Lanarkshire remains one of the most remarkable discoveries of Late Bronze Age metalwork from Scotland, its importance reflected in the detailed account of the find published by John Coles and Jack Scott in 1963. In the present paper, the contents, location and significance of the discovery are reassessed in the light of more recent approaches to research on hoards. In particular, the renewed investigation provided fresh insights into the use and treatment of the artefacts prior to their deposition, while the local topography may have influenced the choice of location to a greater degree than previously assumed. Radiocarbon dates indicate a likely date in the 9th century BC. Taken together, Peelhill Farm and the related find of metalwork from Duddingston Loch, Edinburgh, comprise the northernmost representatives of a group of weapon-dominated hoards mainly recorded in southern Britain. In view of the bias towards martial equipment in their composition, it is argued that the evidence of unrepaired impact marks, and deliberate damage by bending, breaking and burning, all assume greater significance than hitherto recognised. Taken together with what may be assumed to be intentional placement of the artefacts into a boggy setting, the deposition at Peelhill Farm is interpreted as a weapon sacrifice after a warlike event rather than as a ‘scrap hoard’ as once thought.
Hoarding and deposition in Europe from later prehistory to the medieval period – finds in context, 2022
Research into Bronze Age and Iron Age metalwork hoards has increasingly noted that these are the ... more Research into Bronze Age and Iron Age metalwork hoards has increasingly noted that these are the result of accumulation processes. Less attention has been paid to the time over which these hoards were gathered and how we might identify this. This paper highlights a series of tools for recognising time-depth within Bronze Age and Iron Age hoards in Britain, supported by case studies. We can recognise that accumulating objects for a hoard over time was a widespread practice, with some objects rediscovered and incorporated into later hoards, whilst others were retained and curated. This has implications for how we might approach and interpret hoards. Rather than static events representing a single moment in time, we can view some hoards as the result of a long-term process of accumulation.
De L’escaut au nil. Bric-à-brac en hommage à Eugène Warmenbol à l’occasion de son 65e anniversaire, 2022
An exploration of practices and patterns of metalwork deposition during the Late Bronze Age in Sc... more An exploration of practices and patterns of metalwork deposition during the Late Bronze Age in Scotland.
A short piece about a recently discovered Middle Bronze Age palstave from Sefton, Merseyside. Pub... more A short piece about a recently discovered Middle Bronze Age palstave from Sefton, Merseyside. Published within the Merseyside Archaeological Society newsletter.
Book review of Christian Horn and Kristian Kristiansen's (2018) edited volume: Warfare in Bronze ... more Book review of Christian Horn and Kristian Kristiansen's (2018) edited volume: Warfare in Bronze Age Society.
Metalwork depositions of both single and hoarded bronze pieces are perhaps the defining character... more Metalwork depositions of both single and hoarded bronze pieces are perhaps the defining characteristic of the Bronze Age period. A phenomenon often noted, but rarely discussed, however, is the presence of earlier bronze objects in later Bronze Age contexts. These ‘out-of-time’ objects have much to inform us about the ways in which past societies conceived their own past, especially when contextualised in a broader integrated landscape. Such deposits were often made in significant locations in the landscape or within settlements. They could be used to reinforce community boundaries and links with ancestors by including heirloom objects or objects involved in significant practices in the past. The way these objects were treated pre-deposition (e.g. curation or destruction), as well as their type, composition, and use-wear, can be considered indicators of prehistoric processes of commemoration and/or forgetting. Approximately thirty contexts have currently been identified in which ‘out of time’ pieces of metalwork occur, the majority of which, it can be argued, formed events of commemoration, legitimisation and/or forgetting. This paper ultimately builds on previous studies on the mnemonics of objects to enhance our understanding of Bronze Age communities.
(TAG presentation 17th Dec 2014)
The role of ‘the past in the past’ in British prehistory has b... more (TAG presentation 17th Dec 2014)
The role of ‘the past in the past’ in British prehistory has been a popular topic of discussion in the last two decades with much interpretation of the role of monuments and the landscapes in which they are situated. The potential mnemonic properties of objects have however been mostly overlooked.
In 2009, Richard Hingley highlighted the deposition of Bronze Age metalwork in Iron Age contexts as representative of ancestral links and/or commemorating place. This paper builds on Hingley’s study by exploring the phenomenon of earlier Bronze Age objects deposited in later Bronze Age contexts and how this might enable archaeologists to gain an insight into the role of memory in prehistoric societies. A preliminary survey identified nineteen examples of earlier metal artefacts in later Bronze Age contexts across southern Britain, of which three are discussed in detail in this paper. Identifications are made with reference to the well-established typological and chronological frameworks that exist for Bronze Age metalwork; material aesthetics, object life-histories and the depositional contexts of the “out of time” artefacts form the focus of the discussion. It is found that, similarly to Hingley’s original findings, Bronze Age examples from settlements are linked with concepts of place and certain instances in hoards likewise indicate ancestral links or represent an heirloom. Overall this study emphasises the role of already ancient objects in constructing or deconstructing prehistoric ideals based on memory and the past.
It is a well-established problem amongst Bronze Age archaeologists that whilst innumerable bronze... more It is a well-established problem amongst Bronze Age archaeologists that whilst innumerable bronze artefacts have been excavated, there is comparatively little evidence of the metalworkers that crafted them. This work brings together the evidence of metalworkers at occupation areas in Cornwall and Devon and discusses them in light of existing debates surrounding the mobility and social function of Bronze Age metalworkers.
It is widely accepted there was a greater movement of people and transmission of ideas and tradit... more It is widely accepted there was a greater movement of people and transmission of ideas and traditions in later prehistoric Europe (i.e. the Bronze and Iron Ages), as is increasingly evidenced by the most recent surge in scientific analyses, for instance of isotopes and DNA. The evidence provided by these techniques, however, can be enhanced by our main source material: portable material culture. Objects offer a physical representation of inherent concepts of form, manufacture skills and techniques, as well as the opportunities for material analyses to determine origins. Furthermore, the practices attributed to these objects, including the use, treatment, and deposition of objects can demonstrate how certain traditions transformed across different regions. The aim of this session is to bring together a spread of case studies from across Europe during the Bronze and Iron Ages that enables insights into where and how regional and supra-regional links and networks were formed through the trade and exchange of materials and ideas. We invite papers that look at traditions in the production, use and deposition of objects and how these may express influences and connections with other areas. This may include discussions around typologies and distribution patterns; production methods; origins of materials; depositional practices; and post-use treatments (e.g. reworking; fragmentation); as well as the impact these external influences had on the local communities.
http://tag2017cardiff.org/2017/06/01/the-past-in-the-past-investigating-the-significance-of-the-d... more http://tag2017cardiff.org/2017/06/01/the-past-in-the-past-investigating-the-significance-of-the-deposition-of-earlier-objects-in-later-contexts/ Prehistoric and later societies’ perception of the past has received increasing attention over recent years. One practice that has received relatively little attention, however, is the association of already ‘old’ objects with later contexts, despite being noted across multiple eras (e.g. Bronze Age metalwork in Iron Age hoards or Roman artefacts in Anglo-Saxon graves). Interpretations for these items range from the discard of scrap to objects of veneration, though they may have been important tools for memorialising or, conversely, forgetting the past. Whilst some of these objects may have been heirlooms, others may have been uncovered during building or agricultural work perhaps impacting on their biography for those who redeposited them. Often the contexts in which they are deposited form significant locations in the landscape, which may in turn have their own histories and significance to past communities. Such objects thus hold interesting insights into conceptions of time and memory in the past. This session aims to bring together a range of case studies and theoretical approaches to better understand this practice across a longer temporal span.
Call for papers for TAG 2019 at UCL-IoA. Please send any abstracts to the session organisers (det... more Call for papers for TAG 2019 at UCL-IoA. Please send any abstracts to the session organisers (details in text)
Archaeology has been engaged in a constant dialogue with the public right from its beginnings as ... more Archaeology has been engaged in a constant dialogue with the public right from its beginnings as a scientific discipline. Spectacular discoveries have stirred large-scale interest and have become positive icons associated with our field. Narratives of treasure hunt and discovery often are romanticising archaeology as adventure and bravado. On a darker side, the 20th century has seen archaeology being misused (partly by archaeologists themselves) to support political ideologies. Archaeology enjoys a wide popularity and still offers the possibility to be used in both ways quite effectively. Active science communication by archaeologists is essential to avoid misuse of our subject. Traditional outreach, like museums and popular books or articles, have been complemented by new digital tools in past decades. But whatever approach is chosen, one element remains of critical importance: credible experts and communities, who can convey the essence of archaeological research to the public. This is the point where science in general and archaeology in particular have become vulnerable recently. We live in a time, in which facts seem to have become negotiable, and 'alternative facts' can be proposed. The past now is discussed on new platforms, far removed from academia. How can archaeologists keep their role as interpreters and communicators of the past (and should we?)? In which ways can we credibly counter attempts to misuse archaeological data and cultural heritage? What are the best ways to reach out to and engage with the public? How can approaches be assessed so that past unethical communication practices may be discontinued?
Proceedings of the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society, 2022
The small group of prehistoric monuments, situated in an unusually low landscape position, was ex... more The small group of prehistoric monuments, situated in an unusually low landscape position, was excavated by Harold St George Gray in 1931. This paper revisits the artefacts found then, publishes radiocarbon dating for a cremation burial found by Gray and presents the group from the perspective of current thinking. The group of Bronze Age copper-alloy objects found in nearby wetland is briefy commented upon
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To achieve this, this study draws on experimental archaeology, as well as developing a framework for assessing what can be considered deliberate destruction. Understanding these processes not only helps us to recognise how destruction happened, but also gives us insights into the individuals involved in these practices. Through an examination of metalwork from south-west Britain, it is possible to observe the complexities involved at a localised level in the acts of destruction and deposition, as well as how they were linked to people and places. This case study is used to consider the social role of destruction and deposition more broadly in the Bronze Age, highlighting how it transformed over time and space.
For the first time, this volume brings together a range of case studies in which objects of the past were encountered and reappropriated. It follows a conference session at the Theoretical Archaeological Group in Cardiff 2017, in which historians, archaeologists, heritage professionals and commercial archaeologists gathered to discuss this topic on a broad (pre)historical scale, highlighting similarities and contrast in depositional practices and reactions to relics of the past in different periods. Through case studies spanning the Bronze Age through to the 18th century AD, this volume presents new research demonstrating that the reappropriation of these already old objects was not anomalous, but instead represents a practice that recurs throughout (pre)history.
The full volume can be downloaded here: http://www.archaeopress.com/ArchaeopressShop/Public/displayProductDetail.asp?id={01A1424E-7D35-4784-8624-824E09CDA8E1}
Bronze Age metalwork has always caught the interest of archaeologists, largely due to the very large volume and variety of objects that is still being recovered on an almost daily basis. Regional catalogues have been repeatedly undertaken in an attempt to manage the sheer wealth of data and analyse the implications. In 1983, Susan Pearce published such a study of south western Britain (BAR 120, 1983), contributing a catalogue of 896 find spots. This discussion embraced the wider understanding of metalworking in the region, how this fitted with traditions across the rest of the country and the European continent, and how the metalwork was integrated into prehistoric society. This volume is intended to bring the 1983 corpus of south western Bronze Age metalwork finds up to date by documenting finds made in the four counties between January 1980 and July 2014.The intention here is not to undertake a full re-examination of the south western metalwork and its context - such a discussion is beyond the confines of this publication - but instead to suggest some of the broad parameters within which such a discussion might take place, and to point to several key themes that have become prominent in Bronze Age studies since 1983 and to some that remain relatively underexplored.
shows that ancient societies had a sense of and engaged
with their own histories, be it by reusing, re-appropriating or
recreating past material culture. The affective qualities of materials,
places and even human remains would have enabled
people to remember and connect with aspects of their immediate
and more distant pasts. In some cases, this may have
elicited specific emotive responses, similar to how nostalgic
triggers operate today. Nostalgia is not a word commonly used
by archaeologists, but through exploring the materiality and
sensory affect of objects and spaces in the past, we can
consider that what we deal with archaeologically may have
held nostalgic qualities.
To achieve this, this study draws on experimental archaeology, as well as developing a framework for assessing what can be considered deliberate destruction. Understanding these processes not only helps us to recognise how destruction happened, but also gives us insights into the individuals involved in these practices. Through an examination of metalwork from south-west Britain, it is possible to observe the complexities involved at a localised level in the acts of destruction and deposition, as well as how they were linked to people and places. This case study is used to consider the social role of destruction and deposition more broadly in the Bronze Age, highlighting how it transformed over time and space.
For the first time, this volume brings together a range of case studies in which objects of the past were encountered and reappropriated. It follows a conference session at the Theoretical Archaeological Group in Cardiff 2017, in which historians, archaeologists, heritage professionals and commercial archaeologists gathered to discuss this topic on a broad (pre)historical scale, highlighting similarities and contrast in depositional practices and reactions to relics of the past in different periods. Through case studies spanning the Bronze Age through to the 18th century AD, this volume presents new research demonstrating that the reappropriation of these already old objects was not anomalous, but instead represents a practice that recurs throughout (pre)history.
The full volume can be downloaded here: http://www.archaeopress.com/ArchaeopressShop/Public/displayProductDetail.asp?id={01A1424E-7D35-4784-8624-824E09CDA8E1}
Bronze Age metalwork has always caught the interest of archaeologists, largely due to the very large volume and variety of objects that is still being recovered on an almost daily basis. Regional catalogues have been repeatedly undertaken in an attempt to manage the sheer wealth of data and analyse the implications. In 1983, Susan Pearce published such a study of south western Britain (BAR 120, 1983), contributing a catalogue of 896 find spots. This discussion embraced the wider understanding of metalworking in the region, how this fitted with traditions across the rest of the country and the European continent, and how the metalwork was integrated into prehistoric society. This volume is intended to bring the 1983 corpus of south western Bronze Age metalwork finds up to date by documenting finds made in the four counties between January 1980 and July 2014.The intention here is not to undertake a full re-examination of the south western metalwork and its context - such a discussion is beyond the confines of this publication - but instead to suggest some of the broad parameters within which such a discussion might take place, and to point to several key themes that have become prominent in Bronze Age studies since 1983 and to some that remain relatively underexplored.
shows that ancient societies had a sense of and engaged
with their own histories, be it by reusing, re-appropriating or
recreating past material culture. The affective qualities of materials,
places and even human remains would have enabled
people to remember and connect with aspects of their immediate
and more distant pasts. In some cases, this may have
elicited specific emotive responses, similar to how nostalgic
triggers operate today. Nostalgia is not a word commonly used
by archaeologists, but through exploring the materiality and
sensory affect of objects and spaces in the past, we can
consider that what we deal with archaeologically may have
held nostalgic qualities.
The role of ‘the past in the past’ in British prehistory has been a popular topic of discussion in the last two decades with much interpretation of the role of monuments and the landscapes in which they are situated. The potential mnemonic properties of objects have however been mostly overlooked.
In 2009, Richard Hingley highlighted the deposition of Bronze Age metalwork in Iron Age contexts as representative of ancestral links and/or commemorating place. This paper builds on Hingley’s study by exploring the phenomenon of earlier Bronze Age objects deposited in later Bronze Age contexts and how this might enable archaeologists to gain an insight into the role of memory in prehistoric societies. A preliminary survey identified nineteen examples of earlier metal artefacts in later Bronze Age contexts across southern Britain, of which three are discussed in detail in this paper. Identifications are made with reference to the well-established typological and chronological frameworks that exist for Bronze Age metalwork; material aesthetics, object life-histories and the depositional contexts of the “out of time” artefacts form the focus of the discussion. It is found that, similarly to Hingley’s original findings, Bronze Age examples from settlements are linked with concepts of place and certain instances in hoards likewise indicate ancestral links or represent an heirloom. Overall this study emphasises the role of already ancient objects in constructing or deconstructing prehistoric ideals based on memory and the past.
Prehistoric and later societies’ perception of the past has received increasing attention over recent years. One practice that has received relatively little attention, however, is the association of already ‘old’ objects with later contexts, despite being noted across multiple eras (e.g. Bronze Age metalwork in Iron Age hoards or Roman artefacts in Anglo-Saxon graves). Interpretations for these items range from the discard of scrap to objects of veneration, though they may have been important tools for memorialising or, conversely, forgetting the past. Whilst some of these objects may have been heirlooms, others may have been uncovered during building or agricultural work perhaps impacting on their biography for those who redeposited them. Often the contexts in which they are deposited form significant locations in the landscape, which may in turn have their own histories and significance to past communities. Such objects thus hold interesting insights into conceptions of time and memory in the past. This session aims to bring together a range of case studies and theoretical approaches to better understand this practice across a longer temporal span.
for a cremation burial found by Gray and presents the group from the perspective of current thinking. The group of Bronze Age copper-alloy objects found in nearby wetland is briefy commented upon