FINDS - Micromorphology
The aim in the new five-year phase of micromorphological research is to investigate seasonal, annual and longer-term cycles and changes in social and ecological strategies at Çatalhöyük, through analysis of the remarkably finely stratified sequences of sediments and biological and micro-artefactual remains in buildings and middens. This will contribute to the study of intra and inter-household relationships and specialisation in different ‘neighbourhoods' of a large early agricultural community during more than 1000 years of sustainable occupation from 7,400 BC to 6,200 BC. To these ends, in 2004, more than 50 micromorphological samples were collected from key oven and hearth areas and platforms within buildings, and one of the first streets and open areas at the site. A new programme of microanalytical research in collaboration with the School of Chemistry, University of Reading, will enable high-precision analysis of the elemental and mineralogical composition of the fine plasters and micro-residues, and study of their social and palaeocological significance. The change to use of more oxidised coarser sediments for many plasters and mud bricks in later levels, particularly from Level VII and V, raises significant questions about palaeoenvironmental and climatic change, with the possibility of periodic sudden and heavy droughts from 6,500-100 BC, as well as access to specific materials and areas of the landscape by different sectors of the community and households. Access is likely to have been related to wider social and economic networks. |