Experience Of Statistical And Spatial Analysis Of Ceramics From Glyadenovo Bone Bed (Based On Materials Of 2017–2018 Excavations): First Results

Abstract

The paper features the results of testing a comprehensive method for studying the ceramic material of the Glyadenovо bone bed (late 6th c. BC – 5th c. AD). Glyadenovо bone bed is a complex cult site with a mildly stratified cultural layer, which substantially complicates the resolution of the site’s chronology issues. The proposed method can aid in the solution of this task. The study included the following stages. A database of ceramics was created, which reflects the qualitative characteristics of ornamentation. A statistical table was prepared with due account for ornament application technique, individual elements of the ornament, element combinations – ornamental motifs, and the ornamental composition in general. Complex compositions provide a unique set of attributes. The data is presented in binary code and is subject to statistical analysis, which was performed sequentially using two methods: cluster hierarchical analysis and principal component analysis (PCA). After that, the results of clustering and grouping the distribution in principal component coordinates were obtained. The selected clusters and groups reflect the stylistic and chronological features of the ceramics of Glyadenovo bone bed. After that, a spatial analysis of the location of the ceramic material within the cultural layer was carried out using GIS tools, taking into account the statistical analysis results. The stratigraphic principle of the formation of the cultural layer of Glyadenovo bone bed was confirmed. The distribution features of different types of ceramics across the site were revealed.

Keywords

• archaeology
• ceramics
• ornamental pattern
• ananyino culture
• glyadenovo culture
• early iron age
• cluster hierarchical analysis
• principal component analysis
• spatial analysis
• gis