Extensions to the Harris Matrix System to Illustrate Stratigraphic Discussion of an Archaeological Site

Abstract

The “Harris Matrix” system of stratigraphic analysis was developed by Edward C. Harris and first used in England for the Winchester excavations in 1974. Since 1981 the Wadi Tumilat Project has adopted and adapted the method for use in Egypt at the site of Tell el-Maskhuta in the eastern Nile Delta. In the course of preparing stratigraphic information from this site for final publication several modifications or extensions to the system have been developed. These extensions were mainly designed for the purpose of graphic display, providing the viewer with additional visual information by the use of symbols and a modified spatial arrangement of the matrix. The arrangement of the matrix allows each stratigraphic unit to be located in its occupation phase in a horizontal band of space across the diagram. The sequence diagrams can assist colleagues on the project in their discussion and analysis of excavated materials, and can also function as visual aids for public presentations and in final publication of the stratigraphic sequence of the site.