Analytical Interpretation of Organic Residues From Ceramics As a Source of Knowledge About Our Ancestors

Abstract

Food ingredients which were prepared or stored in the archeological ceramics are the most frequently used in the study of ceramic vessels with the use of various types of gas chromatographic methods. These include lipids which contain fatty acids and compounds characteristic of various types of food known as archeological biomarkers. The paper shows how the lipid profile analysis and its interpretation can be helpful to explain the source of organic substances preserved in archeological ceramic vessels. The presence of characteristic sterols discriminates between plant (phytosterols) and animal (zoosterols) residues. Based on the calculated proportions of selected fatty acids, the animal residues can be precisely identified as originating from fish, ruminants or monogastric animals. Many authors have created their own methods of interpretation and conclusion, which makes it possible to sort out all the information gathered about the historical purpose of clay vessels. Due to the fact that the presented research still raises some doubts and questions, it is important for the interpretation of the results of chemical analysis to be considered in the archeological context. The ability to properly explain the meaning of the results of analyses is crucial for a better understanding of the life and customs of our ancestors.

Keywords:

• Archeological biomarkers
• ceramics
• lipid profiles