Abstract
This paper presents a formal framework for synchronizing strata and datable artefacts in multi-layered sites. We first present a simple set of rules regarding the definition of safe termini post quem, taking into account cases of uncertain dating and/or uncertain stratigraphic attribution of the artifacts. We then propose a definition of chronologically optimal termini post quem, and a procedure to represent these optimal termini graphically by a step function in a two-dimensional graph. We also propose a definition of chronologically critical artifacts, as a minimal set of artifacts that determine all the optimal termini post quem of a stratigraphic sequence. Finally, we define a measure of the robustness of a terminus post quem, expressed in terms of the number of different artifacts supporting this terminus. We illustrate our approach through the case study of Egyptian scarabs from the site of Beth Shean (northern Israel), a well-known Bronze and Iron Age site that hosted an Egyptian garrison during the New Kingdom (ca. 1540–1070 B.C.E.). We also provide a software utility which assists users in applying our methodology.
Highlights
This paper proposes a formal framework for synchronizing strata and datable artifacts in multi-layered sites
The notion of unimodality refers to the assumption that only one such peak is attained for each type of artifact. This enables a reordering of the different contexts in such a way as to make the relative frequencies of each type appear as a bell-shaped curve, and to obtain a relative dating for these contexts
We propose a general discussion of the chronology of Beth Shean with regard to the TPQs derived from Egyptian scarabs (Section 6)
Summary
This paper proposes a formal framework for synchronizing strata and datable artifacts in multi-layered sites. It is based on the definition of safe termini post quem (TPQs) derived from stratified artifacts, their representation in a two-dimensional graph, and the characterization of their qualitative and quantitative value. Based on simple stratigraphic logic, to the best of our knowledge the notions presented in this paper have never been formalized within an integrated framework. We provide a software utility which assists users in applying our methodology
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
