Palaeolithic Archaeology Workshop Event

Palaeolithic Archaeology: field recognition and identification of lithic artefacts

The workshop will provide an introduction to the defining characteristics of humanly-made lithic artefacts, and key features that distinguish genuine artefacts from various natural pieces that could be mistaken as artefacts. It will also cover basic terminology for the description of lithic artefacts, and the main categories and types of Palaeolithic artefact likely to be encountered in Britain. The course will include presentations, a knapping demonstration, and handouts; but the main content of the course will be practical work on recognition of artefacts from natural pieces amongst a large teaching collection. The course will conclude with a short informal practical test.

This course is primarily aimed at professional field archaeologists who wish to develop or improve their skills at Palaeolithic artefact recognition and identification during fieldwork. It will also be of benefit to anyone wishing to enter the commercial archaeological sector, where these skills are much-needed and in short supply, and to anyone with a general interest in the collection of Palaeolithic artefacts. No prior expertise in lithic artefacts is required.

Tutor Profile

Dr Francis Wenban-Smith is Principal Research Fellow in the Department of Archaeology at the University of Southampton, specialising in the Palaeolithic. Shortly after completing my PhD in 1996, the Channel Tunnel Rail Link (High Speed 1) was routed through my PhD site in the Ebbsfleet Valley, northern Kent, leading to a major programme of pre-development investigations. My work has continued since then as a Palaeolithic and Quaternary geoarchaeological specialist for commercial archaeological investigations in advance of development, as well as developing/leading Palaeolithic research projects.

This one day workshop will be run twice, on 26 and 27 January, and there is a charge of £85 per person per day.  Please note tea and coffee will be provided however lunch will not be provided, cafe facilities will be open on the Friday but not on the Saturday.