Details
Using evidence from archaeological sites across Turkey, the Near East and the Balkans, it explores the history of personal ornaments from their appearance in the Palaeolithic until the rise of urban centres in the Early Bronze Age and encompassing technologies ranging from stone cutting to early glazing, metallurgy and the roots of glass manufacture. The development of theoretical and practical approaches to ornaments and the current state of research are illustrated with a wide variety of examples.
This book shows that far from being objects of display, of little value in archaeological interpretation and often overlooked, these artefacts are key to understanding trade, relationships, values, beliefs and the construction of personal identity in the past. Indeed, more than any other group of artefacts, their variety in material, form, use and distribution opens doors to both wide ranging scientific exploration and consideration of what it is to be human.
Table of Contents
Reviews & Quotes
"...well-structured and supported by numerous maps, diagrams, black and white photographs and colour plates that depict examples of the ornaments discussed throughout, which is essential for the non-subject specialist reader to gain an understanding of the visual impact that the ornaments had. "
Elizabeth Foulds
Archaeological Journal
(12/10/2021)
"As a whole, the book gives context to an area that is probably largely misunderstood by many historians (and the public in general), and provides a very satisfying journey... An immense achievement by an expert in her field, this book shines a light onto a complex, neglected, and misunderstood era."
Katie Godman
Journal of Dress History
(06/10/2020)
"[The book's] somewhat restricted geographical focus does not detract frm the main thrust and quality of the themes."
George Nash
Current World Archaeology
(02/04/2020)
