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A Suse : Journal des fouilles, 1884-1886

Jane Dieulafoy

"A Suse: Journal des fouilles, 1884-1886" by Jane Dieulafoy is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work documents Dieulafoy's archaeological expeditions to the ancient site of Susa in Iran, detailing her experiences and discoveries during the excavation process. Given her background and strong personal involvement, the book likely sheds light on the significant historical context of the region, particularly regarding its rich cultural heritage and artifacts. At the start of the journal, Dieulafoy reflects on her previous travels across Persia and the sense of excitement that leads her and her husband to embark on this archaeological mission. A notable clear intention is to resume excavations at Susa, stirring her husband's imaginations of the past glories of the Achaemenid Empire. Despite significant challenges, including bureaucratic obstacles in obtaining excavation permissions and managing the logistics of the expedition, Dieulafoy's narrative showcases a blend of adventure, historical curiosity, and personal anecdotes. Early entries set the stage for a journey filled with cultural encounters, logistical challenges, and reflections on past civilizations, inviting readers to witness the unfolding story of discovery and the passion behind the pursuit of historical knowledge. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

An account of some kjoekkenmoeddings, or shell-heaps, in Maine and Massachusetts

Jeffries Wyman

"An account of some kjoekkenmoeddings, or shell-heaps, in Maine and Massachusetts" by Jeffries Wyman, M.D. is a scientific publication likely written in the mid-19th century. The book focuses on the investigation and description of various archaeological shell-heaps along the coasts of Maine and Massachusetts, known as këkkenmøddings, which serve as remnants of Native American habitation and provide insights into their culinary practices and lifestyle. In this account, Wyman meticulously examines several shell-heaps, presenting a detailed analysis of their composition, structure, and the various animal remains and tools discovered within them. He documents findings from key locations, such as Frenchman’s Bay and Cotuit Port, detailing the layers of shells, the types of seafood consumed, and the remains of terrestrial animals. Wyman discusses the significance of these discoveries in understanding the dietary habits and cultural practices of the Indigenous peoples, as well as the age of the heaps, suggesting they date back several centuries based on the variety of species and the geological conditions surrounding them. The work is notable for its empirical observations and contributes to the field of archaeology by highlighting the historical and cultural importance of these shell deposits. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Archeological investigations in New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah

Jesse Walter Fewkes

"Archeological Investigations in New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah" by J. Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication authored in the early 20th century. This work documents the archeological explorations conducted by Fewkes, particularly focusing on the prehistoric ruins and architecture in the Southwest region of the United States. Featuring an array of plates that illustrate the findings, the book serves as a significant contribution to the understanding of ancient cultures in these areas. In this publication, Fewkes recounts his investigations spanning several months in 1916, detailing the assessment of various ruins and architectural remnants associated with ancient indigenous populations, notably the Hopi and Zuñi clans. He provides descriptions of sites such as the Fire House and the structures in Nashlini Canyon, analyzing their architectural features and possible cultural implications. The text combines field observations with interpretations of traditional legends, seeking to connect architectural styles with the migratory histories of these ancient peoples. Fewkes aims to enrich contemporary understanding of southwestern prehistory, emphasizing the need for further explorations and excavations to uncover more about the area's complex human past. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Archeology of the lower Mimbres valley, New Mexico

Jesse Walter Fewkes

"Archeology of the Lower Mimbres Valley, New Mexico" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the archaeological findings and cultural significance of the prehistoric inhabitants of the Mimbres Valley, exploring their architectural styles, burial customs, and the artifacts they left behind. It aims to fill in the gaps of knowledge regarding this lesser-studied region and its ancient peoples. At the start of the work, Fewkes introduces the accumulation of evidence of a prehistoric culture in the Lower Mimbres Valley but notes the scarcity of definitive knowledge regarding its customs and architecture. He discusses the challenges of studying this area, emphasizing the loss of important archaeological materials to collectors over the years. Fewkes outlines the historical context of this valley and shares observations from his own archaeological excursion in 1914, during which he collected various artifacts that contribute to understanding the ancient culture, particularly their pottery and burial practices. The opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the Mimbres' distinct cultural identity, which, while sharing superficial similarities with other Southwestern cultures, possesses unique characteristics, especially in their architectural remains and symbolic potteries. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Discoveries in Egypt, Ethiopia and the peninsula of Sinai, in the years 1842-1845, during the mission sent out by his majesty, Frederick William IV of Prussia.

Richard Lepsius

"Discoveries in Egypt, Ethiopia, and the Peninsula of Sinai" by Dr. Richard Lepsius is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book documents the findings and experiences of a scientific expedition commissioned by the King of Prussia, focusing on evaluating and collecting information and artifacts from ancient Egyptian monuments, particularly those in the Nile Valley and Sinai Peninsula. It serves as a comprehensive report of the expedition's discoveries while also providing insights into the historical significance and the conditions of the regions explored. The opening portion of the work introduces the mission and its purpose, laying out the lofty goals of documenting ancient monuments and archaeological treasures. Dr. Lepsius details the preparations leading up to the voyage, highlighting key companions who joined him on this endeavor, including notable artists and architects. The narrative begins with their departure from Southampton and a vivid description of their journey across the Mediterranean to Alexandria, capturing their first impressions of the culture and landscape of Egypt. Through letters addressed to various patrons, the stage is set for a detailed exploration of significant historical sites, rich in archaeological wonder, which the expedition aims to study comprehensively over the coming years. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Antiquities of the Mesa Verde National Park : Spruce-tree House

Jesse Walter Fewkes

"Antiquities of the Mesa Verde National Park: Spruce-tree House" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the archaeological studies and findings related to Spruce-tree House, one of the significant cliff dwellings located in the Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. The book likely explores the construction, design, and artifacts of the site, providing valuable insights into the ancient inhabitants of the area and their culture. At the start of the publication, the author discusses the context of his excavation work at Spruce-tree House, which was conducted under the auspices of the Smithsonian Institution’s Bureau of American Ethnology. Fewkes details the geographical and geological features surrounding the ruin and provides a historical background of prior explorations in the region. He outlines the overall structure of Spruce-tree House and introduces its main attributes, such as the number of rooms and kivas, architectural styles, and evidence of previous inhabitants. The opening sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the site’s physical characteristics and archaeological significance, establishing a foundation for the subsequent analysis of artifacts and cultural patterns. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Wakeman's handbook of Irish antiquities : Third Edition

W. F. (William Frederick) Wakeman

"Wakeman's Handbook of Irish Antiquities: Third Edition" by John Cooke is a comprehensive historical account written in the early 20th century. The text serves as a detailed exploration of Ireland's ancient archaeological remains, covering a wide array of topics such as stone monuments, burial customs, and early Christian artifacts. It is particularly focused on the classification and significance of various archaeological structures and sites that showcase Ireland's rich history. The opening of the handbook presents a preface where the author recounts the challenges and significance of revising the work of W. F. Wakeman, a noted authority in Irish archaeology. John Cooke emphasizes the need to update and expand upon Wakeman's original material due to new archaeological research and methodologies that have emerged. He outlines the three main classifications of Irish antiquities—prehistoric, early Christian, and Anglo-Irish—and provides a brief overview of various significant sites and structures, demonstrating Ireland’s wealth of ancient remains. This introduction sets the stage for a thorough examination of Ireland's archaeological landscape, engaging readers interested in the pivotal aspects of Ireland's historical development. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Early British trackways, moats, mounds, camps, and sites

Alfred Watkins

"Early British Trackways, Moats, Mounds, Camps, and Sites" by Alfred Watkins is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book meticulously investigates the ancient trackways and associated structures in Britain, delving into their design and function from prehistoric times through the Roman occupation. Watkins proposes a systematic approach to understanding how these features were interconnected and the implications of their layouts for early human activity and navigation. At the start of the work, the author reflects on the prevailing misconceptions surrounding the study of ancient trackways, highlighting the need for new evidence and methods to uncover their true nature. He outlines how his exploration of maps and field observations led to the discovery of sighting lines linking various structures, such as mounds, moats, and churches. Watkins calls upon readers to engage in their own investigations, providing a rationale grounded in physical evidence and urging a collaborative effort to re-evaluate previous conclusions held by antiquarians. This opening portion sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how these ancient routes and landmarks are aligned in ways that reveal a sophisticated planning system employed by early Britons. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Excavations at the LoDaisKa Site in the Denver, Colorado area

H. T. (Henry Thomas Johnson) Irwin

"Excavations at the LoDaisKa Site in the Denver, Colorado area" by H. J. and C. C. Irwin et al. is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. This work presents archaeological research focusing on the LoDaisKa site, examining various cultural remains and stratigraphic layers from the area around Morrison, Colorado. The book is likely to appeal to readers interested in archaeology, anthropology, and the historical cultures of the American West. The opening of the book provides a detailed introduction to the background of the archaeological investigation at the LoDaisKa site, describing its geographical and cultural significance as a transitional area between two distinct cultures: the Desert Culture of the Great Basin and the Plains cultures. The authors acknowledge the contributions of various individuals, particularly Dr. H. M. Wormington, and highlight the significance of prior surveys leading to their excavation work. Furthermore, they introduce initial observations about the site's physiographical characteristics, including its climate and the flora and fauna of the region, setting the stage for a more in-depth exploration of the archaeological findings. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Prehistoric villages, castles, and towers of southwestern Colorado

Jesse Walter Fewkes

"Prehistoric Villages, Castles, and Towers of Southwestern Colorado" by J. Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the archaeological findings and historical significance of ancient structures in southwestern Colorado, detailing the cultural history of the Cliff-dwellers and Pueblos prior to recorded history. It aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the villages, towers, and castles found in the region, offering insight into their architectural styles and the civilization that constructed them. At the start of the book, Fewkes sets the scene by discussing the contributions of archaeology to the understanding of human cultural development. He highlights the importance of southwestern Colorado, where unique forms of architecture were developed before the arrival of Europeans. Fewkes explains that his purpose is to share observations gathered from fieldwork conducted in 1917 and 1918, focusing on various ruins, such as Surouaro and Goodman Point. He introduces the idea of classifying different types of structures, including villages and cliff-dwellings, and emphasizes the need for further investigation to comprehend the complexities of this ancient culture. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Die Ausgrabungen der Universität von Pennsylvania im Bêl-Tempel zu Nippur

H. V. (Hermann Vollrat) Hilprecht

"Die Ausgrabungen der Universität von Pennsylvania im Bêl-Tempel zu Nippur" von H. V. Hilprecht is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work details the archaeological excavations conducted at the ancient site of Nippur, a significant cultural hub in Babylon, highlighting the findings and historical context of these excavations. The text illustrates the transformation of the landscape over centuries, moving from a vibrant civilization to a desolate terrain filled with ruins and remnants of a once-thriving culture. The beginning of the text introduces readers to the historical significance of Nippur, situated in the area now known as Iraq. Hilprecht describes the extensive ruins and presents an overview of the findings from the excavations, drawing attention to the contrast between the past splendor and the current state of decay. He outlines the funding and logistics of the archaeological work, describes the challenges faced by the expedition, and hints at the treasures yet to be uncovered in the ruins of the Bêl Temple, inviting readers to grasp the importance and richness of Babylonian history waiting to be unearthed. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The ruined cities of Mashonaland: Being a record of excavation and exploration in 1891

J. Theodore (James Theodore) Bent

"The Ruined Cities of Mashonaland: Being a Record of Excavation and Exploration" by J. Theodore Bent is an archaeological account written in the late 19th century. The book centers around Bent's expedition to South Africa, primarily focusing on the exploration and excavation of ancient ruins in Mashonaland, particularly the Great Zimbabwe ruins. It seeks to unveil the history and culture of the civilizations that built these enigmatic structures, drawing parallels with other ancient cultures. The opening of the work sets a scholarly tone as it introduces the author’s background and objectives during the journey in 1891. Bent discusses the difficult journey undertaken with his wife and cartographer R. W. M. Swan, emphasizing their meticulous study of the local tribes, customs, and landscapes while seeking out the famed ruins. The narrative hints at interesting interactions with the native inhabitants and suggests an intricate relationship between their past civilization and the archaeological findings, establishing a foundation for the examination of the ancient architecture and artifacts that will be explored in greater detail throughout the text. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The land of the Hittites : An account of recent explorations and discoveries in Asia Minor, with descriptions of the Hittite monuments

John Garstang

"The Land of the Hittites: An Account of Recent Explorations and Discoveries in Asia Minor, with Descriptions of the Hittite Monuments" by John Garstang is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the findings from archaeological expeditions that expose the once-forgotten civilizational heritage of the Hittites in Asia Minor and Northern Syria. It aims to fill the gaps in understanding the Hittite history, art, and culture that significantly influenced the ancient Near East. At the start of the work, the author introduces the geographical, historical, and cultural complexities surrounding the Hittite civilization. He discusses the lands they inhabited, which are primarily defined by notable mountain ranges, river systems, and archaeological sites. The opening chapters present an overview of the Hittite territories, highlighting their strategic location between influential empires and positing that their mountainous origins shaped their unique culture and historical interactions. The rich description lays the foundation for exploring various Hittite monuments and sites that shaped the narrative of this ancient civilization. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

A note on the position and extent of the great temple enclosure of Tenochtitlan, - and the position, structure and orientation of the Teocolli of Huitzilopochtli.

Alfred Percival Maudslay

"A note on the position and extent of the great temple enclosure of Tenochtitlan, and the position, structure and orientation of the Teocalli of Huitzilopochtli" by Alfred P. Maudslay is a scholarly publication written in the early 20th century. This book examines the historical and architectural details of the Great Temple Enclosure of Tenochtitlan, which was a significant religious and cultural center for the Mexica (Aztec) civilization. The work focuses on reconstructing the layout and details of the temple complex based on early accounts and records. In this detailed exploration, Maudslay compiles observations from early Spanish explorers and chroniclers, such as Bernal Díaz and Fray Bernardino de Sahagún, to identify various elements of the temple, including its size, orientation, and significance. The temple itself served as a focal point for religious ceremonies, sacrifices, and community gatherings. The text outlines various interpretations of the temple's architecture, including its dimensions and the number of stairways leading to its altars dedicated to the deities Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc. Through careful analysis of historical descriptions and archaeological findings, Maudslay aims to present a clearer picture of this monumental site and its importance within the ancient city of Tenochtitlan. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Emeryville Shellmound

Max Uhle

"The Emeryville Shellmound" by Max Uhle is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work chronicles archaeological excavations and findings at the Emeryville Shellmound, a significant site located on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay. The text focuses on the archaeological evidence of early inhabitants of the area, their artifacts, and the cultural practices reflected in the mound's structure and contents. The opening of the work introduces the importance of the shellmounds found along the California coast, noting their rarity compared to other archaeological remains in the United States. It describes the collaborative effort of Professor John C. Merriam and Dr. Uhle in excavating the Emeryville mound, emphasizing its notable size and the various strata of artifacts within it. Initial observations about the mound's topography are accompanied by a historical context detailing past human settlements and the significance of the excavation as a window into the lives of the region's early inhabitants. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The archæology of the cuneiform inscriptions

A. H. (Archibald Henry) Sayce

"The Archæology of the Cuneiform Inscriptions" by A. H. Sayce is a scholarly examination of cuneiform inscriptions, written in the early 20th century. The work seeks to explore the art and science of deciphering these ancient writings, the significance of archaeological findings in the Near East, and their impact on our understanding of ancient civilizations, particularly those of Babylonia and Assyria. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed discourse on the challenges faced by early decipherers of cuneiform inscriptions, portraying the quest for knowledge as a form of intellectual adventure akin to a romance. Sayce outlines the historical context of cuneiform writing, tracing its evolution and the collaborative efforts of scholars over decades to unearth its meaning amid prevailing misconceptions about its origins. The narrative emphasizes the transformative implications of these discoveries, which have reshaped our understanding of ancient cultures and illuminated the interconnectedness of civilizations across the ancient Near East, igniting the curiosity of readers regarding the methods and findings in this fascinating field of archaeology. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

An Illustrated Dictionary of Words used in Art and Archaeology - Explaining terms frequently used in works on architecture, arms, bronzes, Christian art, colour, costume, decoration, devices, emblems, heraldry, lace, personal ornaments, pottery, painting,

John W. (John William) Mollett

"An Illustrated Dictionary of Words used in Art and Archaeology" by John W. Mollett is a reference work written in the late 19th century. The dictionary aims to elucidate terms frequently encountered in the realms of art and archaeology, ranging from architecture to various art forms, including painting, sculpture, and decorative arts. It serves as an invaluable resource for students, researchers, and enthusiasts of art history and archaeology. At the start of this reference, Mollett outlines the origins of the dictionary, revealing that it began as an amended edition of a French work by M. Ernest Bosc. He emphasizes the comprehensive approach taken, incorporating definitions drawn from esteemed authorities across multiple disciplines related to art and archaeology. The opening portion also hints at the extensive inclusion of both illustrations and entries, ensuring that readers have a thorough understanding of the history and terminology related to artistic and archaeological practices. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Turquois mosaic art in ancient Mexico

Marshall H. (Marshall Howard) Saville

"Turquois Mosaic Art in Ancient Mexico" by Marshall H. Saville is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the remarkable artistry of turquois mosaics crafted by the ancient civilizations of Mexico, primarily focusing on their cultural significance and the techniques used. The book aims to highlight the historical context and craftsmanship of this unique art form during a period when many aspects of indigenous Mexican culture faced obsolescence. At the start of the text, the author introduces the significance of turquois mosaics in the context of ancient Mexican civilization. He reflects on the lost potential of the Aztec and other tribes due to European conquest, emphasizing their sophisticated civilization, advanced craftsmanship, and unique artistic expressions. The opening also details the genesis of knowledge concerning turquois mosaic arts, citing early European encounters and examinations of artifacts, and outlines the various materials and techniques employed by ancient artisans. As the text progresses, it lays a foundation for a deeper exploration of this intricate art and its enduring legacy in the culture of pre-Hispanic Mexico. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Harroun Site: A Fulton Aspect Component of the Caddoan Area, Upshur County, Texas

Edward B. Jelks

"The Harroun Site: A Fulton Aspect Component of the Caddoan Area, Upshur County" by Edward B. Jelks and Curtis D. Tunnell is a scientific publication written in the late 20th century. The book details archaeological research conducted at the Harroun site, which includes several mounds associated with the Caddoan culture in northeastern Texas. The publication aims to present findings from salvage excavations conducted prior to the construction of the Ferrell’s Bridge Reservoir, offering insights into the cultural aspects of the region's historical inhabitants. The opening of the report introduces the background and context for the excavation of the Harroun site. It explains the site's location, the collaborative effort between The University of Texas and the National Park Service, and outlines the excavation process carried out between 1957 and 1959. Initial findings revealed multiple mounds, burial features, and artifacts related to the Fulton Aspect of the Caddoan Area, indicating the site's importance for understanding the region's archaeological history. The opening emphasizes the rigorous methods of excavation and recording, which set the stage for the detailed analysis to follow in the subsequent chapters. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Prehistoric Indians of the Southwest

H. M. (Hannah Marie) Wormington

"Prehistoric Indians of the Southwest" by H. M. Wormington is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. The work explores the ancient cultures of the Southwest region of the United States, focusing on the peoples who inhabited this area over thousands of years, including the Anasazi, Mogollon, and Hohokam. Through a combination of archaeological findings and ethnographic accounts, the book aims to shed light on the lives, cultures, and historical timelines of these prehistoric inhabitants. The opening of the book presents a rich preface that sets the tone for its exploration of the Southwest's ancient cultures. It introduces the idea that the region has been shaped by various archaeological findings and cultural narratives over the past 25,000 years. Emphasizing the beauty and allure of the Southwest, Wormington discusses the importance of understanding prehistoric peoples and the methodologies used by archaeologists to build knowledge from the remnants they left behind. She intends to narrate these histories comprehensively for both laymen and students, while also advocating against the unscientific looting of archaeological sites, highlighting the need for a respectful understanding of the area's cultural heritage. (This is an automatically generated summary.)