Integrating Lipid Residue Analysis into Zooarchaeological Research

Summary

This paper considers the use of lipid residue analyses as an integral part of zooarchaeological research. It critically assesses the different types of information that can be gained from the study of both animal bones and lipid residues. It is not the intention to provide detailed consideration of the methods of lipid residue analysis, but instead to concentrate on zooarchaeological interpretation, drawing out, from examples, the different methodologies’ strengths and weaknesses in relation to a variety of questions. Key issues discussed with respect to both methods include identification, reference material, inherent biases, taphonomy, quantification of the economic and cultural significance, association with material culture and context, dating, and environmental reconstruction.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 81st Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL (2016)   •
• New Methods in Zooarchaeology

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