The Application of Phosphate Analysis to the Location and Interpretation of Archaeological Sites

Craddock, Paul; Gurney, David; Pryor, Francis; Hughes, Michael J.

doi:10.1080/00665983.1985.11021068

Cited by 47 publications

(40 citation statements)

References 7 publications

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“…Several studies of archaeological sites demonstrate a relationship between phosphate concentrations found in the soil and areas of specific household activities (Barba et al, 1987;Cavanagh et al, 1988;Craddock et al, 1986;Dunning, 1993;Killion et al, 1989;Konrad et al, 1983;Manzanilla and Barba, 1990;Middleton and Price, 1996;Ortiz and Barba, 1993;Proudfoot, 1976;Robin, 1999;Sá nchez et al, 1996;Terry et al, 2000;Wells et al, 2000). Ethnographic studies also illustrate the relationship between phosphate concentration and domestic activities (Barba and Ortiz, 1992).…”

Section: Methodological History Of Phosphate Analysis In Archaeologymentioning

confidence: 99%

Using in‐field phosphate testing to rapidly identify middens at Piedras Negras, Guatemala

2001

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Recent studies have promoted using soil phosphate analysis to detect ancient Maya sites by delimiting areas of occupation based on decomposed organic matter. Refuse associated with human activity increases organic matter around areas of ancient human habitation. Theoretically, the highest concentration of organic matter—detectable by phosphate analysis—should be directly associated with areas of refuse disposal. Thus, the objective of this study is to investigate the potential of phosphate analysis to detect residential middens in Piedras Negras, Guatemala. This paper presents the results of a sensitive, in‐field phosphate analysis method applied as a midden prospection tool in residential areas. Phosphate concentration is correlated with artifact data obtained from a total of 37 test pits excavated in areas of varying phosphate concentration in three residential sites. A positive correlation between phosphate concentration and ceramic density indicates the potential of this method in defining and orienting excavations of residential areas. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Section: Methodological History Of Phosphate Analysis In Archaeologymentioning

confidence: 99%

Using in‐field phosphate testing to rapidly identify middens at Piedras Negras, Guatemala

2001

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“…have helped in prospection for ancient features such as middens and have provided evidence of ancient human activities that included disposal of waste, sweeping of debris, food preparation and consumption, mineral crafting, rituals, and market exchange (Anderson et al 2012;Craddock et al 1985;Dahlin et al 2007Dahlin et al , 2010Hayes 2013;Hutson and Terry 2006;Luzzadder-Beach et al 2011;Oonk et al 2009;Parnell et al 2001;Parnell, Terry, and Nelson 2002;Parnell, Terry, and Sheets 2002;Terry et al 2000). geochemical analyses figure prominently in our attempts to locate marketplaces.…”

Section: Marketplace Accessibilitymentioning

confidence: 99%

Ancient Maya Commerce : Multidisciplinary Research at Chunchucmil

Hutson¹

2017

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“…Chemical analyses of the soil material, especially the phosphorus content, are used to identify archaeological sites or to designate excavation sites (e.g. Gebhardt 1982;Craddock et al 1986;Scudder et al 1996;Schlezinger and Howes 2000;Kristiansen 2001), and to determine the range and intensity of an ancient occupation, as well as the functional diversity within settlements or single farmsteads (e.g. Lippi 1988;Crowther 1997;Farswann and Nautiyal 1997;James 1999;Schlezinger and Howes 2000;Wells et al 2000;Parnell et al 2002;Terry et al 2004;Bednarek et al 2010;Canuto et al 2010;Luzzander-Beach 2011;Roos and Nolan 2012;Pecci et al 2013;Salisbury 2012bSalisbury , 2013.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Evidence of a homestead from the Late Bronze Age at the Ruda site (Northern Poland) based on archaeopedological studies

Markiewicz

Rembisz-Lubiejewska

2016

Bulletin of Geography. Physical Geography Series

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Abstract. Based on archaeological data and pedological analysis, an attempt was made to reconstruct the functional pattern of a farmstead from the Late Bronze Age at the Ruda site (Northern Poland). Late Bronze Age human activity in the area and immediate vicinity of the homestead led to changes in the chemical properties of the soils. Different values of phosphorus and organic carbon content in the features and cultural layers may help interpretation of the past spatial development and use of the studied households. The areas with the highest concentration are linked with places of intense economic activity, and the small increase in the phosphorus content in the soil from the homestead may suggest a relatively short exploitation of this place, which would correspond with the small number of artefacts from that area. Features similar to the presented Late Bronze Age homestead have

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The Application of Phosphate Analysis to the Location and Interpretation of Archaeological Sites

Cited by 47 publications

References 7 publications

Using in‐field phosphate testing to rapidly identify middens at Piedras Negras, Guatemala

Using in‐field phosphate testing to rapidly identify middens at Piedras Negras, Guatemala

Ancient Maya Commerce : Multidisciplinary Research at Chunchucmil

Evidence of a homestead from the Late Bronze Age at the Ruda site (Northern Poland) based on archaeopedological studies

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