Excavation Techniques

Definition

Excavation techniques refer to the methods and processes used to carefully uncover and record artifacts, structures, and other archaeological features during an excavation. These techniques are vital for preserving the context of findings, ensuring accurate documentation, and enabling a better understanding of historical sites like those from the Qin Dynasty and the Terracotta Army.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Excavation techniques include hand tools like trowels and brushes for careful digging, allowing archaeologists to avoid damaging fragile artifacts.
2. Different excavation strategies can be employed based on the type of site; for example, vertical excavations focus on depth, while horizontal excavations aim to reveal large areas of a site.
3. Documentation during excavation is crucial; archaeologists meticulously record the position, depth, and orientation of each artifact to maintain context.
4. The Terracotta Army was discovered using both mechanical equipment for initial clearing and manual excavation methods to preserve the integrity of each statue.
5. Modern excavation techniques often incorporate technology such as ground-penetrating radar to identify potential archaeological features before digging.

Review Questions

• How do excavation techniques impact the preservation of artifacts from the Qin Dynasty?
  • Excavation techniques greatly impact the preservation of artifacts from the Qin Dynasty by ensuring that items like those in the Terracotta Army are uncovered without damage. Manual tools such as trowels allow archaeologists to delicately remove soil around fragile pieces, while careful documentation helps maintain their original context. This careful approach not only protects the integrity of each artifact but also provides valuable information about their historical significance.
• Discuss the role of stratigraphy in understanding the archaeological findings at sites like the Terracotta Army.
  • Stratigraphy plays a crucial role in understanding archaeological findings at sites such as the Terracotta Army by providing insight into the chronological sequence of events that led to their burial. By analyzing different soil layers, archaeologists can determine how long ago these structures were built and any changes that occurred over time. This information helps piece together the historical context surrounding the creation and eventual deposition of the Terracotta Army.
• Evaluate how modern excavation techniques, including technology integration, have changed our understanding of ancient sites like those from the Qin Dynasty.
  • Modern excavation techniques have significantly transformed our understanding of ancient sites like those from the Qin Dynasty through the integration of technology. Tools such as ground-penetrating radar allow archaeologists to locate buried features without invasive digging, preserving site integrity. Additionally, advances in 3D modeling help visualize complex structures before excavation begins, leading to more informed decision-making. These technological innovations enhance both efficiency and accuracy in archaeological research, revealing deeper insights into ancient civilizations.

Related terms

Stratigraphy: The study of rock layers (strata) and layering (stratification) used in archaeology to understand the chronological sequence of deposits at a site.

Site Survey: A systematic examination of a specific area to identify archaeological resources, involving mapping and documenting the distribution of artifacts and features.

Conservation: The process of preserving artifacts and features once they are uncovered, ensuring their stability and integrity for future study and display.