Francis, Victoria (Archaeological Sciences Laboratories, University of Queensland)

Constructing an Artefact Residue Reference Collection

Before any microscopic residue analysis is attempted, the archaeologist should have some idea what types of attributes they are searching for and know how to recognise them. To facilitate this process, a reference collection and accompanying handbook is being set up at the Archaeological Sciences Laboratories at the University of Queensland. These will provide readily accessible information drawn from past research on the optimal methods of examining artefacts, as well as on how to recognise residues and use-wear. As an example of how the process of residue identification can be facilitated by past research, the results of my residue analysis of 20 bone artefacts from Platypus Rockshelter, southeast Queensland, are presented. This study resulted in the identification of a range of residues, both archaeological and modern.

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