We provide anthropological analysis of material from archaeological excavations.
- Preparation, documentation, and basic evaluation in the field
- Cleaning and reconstruction
- Processing, photographic documentation, excavation report
Anthropological analysis includes age and sex determination, and height estimation. We further assess health conditions, including manifestations of diseases and work stress traces on the skeleton. In the case of assemblages with undetermined individuals, we estimate the minimum number of individuals and approximate age group. We look for apparent indicators of sex or disease manifestations on bones. Regarding cremation, we determine the degree of burning, weight, and volume. We describe the size of fragments and determine specific bones. Obtained data, in combination with osteozoological results, can be used to study populations, assess their health condition, evaluate the extent of taphonomic processes, manipulation with individuals, etc. We use standard procedures for evaluating the skeleton. In indicated cases (complicated fractures, inflammation, anomalies in the development of teeth, the presence of foreign bodies in bones – gunshot wounds), we use our own X-ray machine (Explorer X test 200-120/400 from Testima).
We also have experience with less common excavation situations and projects, such as the research of crypts, ossuaries, or reliquaries.
The results of anthropological analyses are submitted, depending on the agreement, in electronic form or in the form of a printed report with an attached CD (report, photo of processing, obtained data). If interested, it is also possible to participate in scientific publications.
The time range of anthropological analyses of human skeletal material given below is only indicative and largely depends on the content, structure of a particular collection, and its state of preservation.
- Basic processing of a skeleton: 4-8 hours.
- Basic processing of a banana box (undifferentiated material): 4-8 hours.
- Interpretation of the obtained data and report preparation (depends on the size and complexity of the assemblage): 16-40/80 hours.
