PhD proposal defense: Amy Chase, 13/03/2020
Amy Chase will be defending her PhD proposal, 'A colorful history: Iron and manganese oxide pigment utilization and procurement at El Castillo Cave, Spain', on Friday, March 13th at 1.30pm in QC-2013.
Amy outlines her research, "This project proposes to undertake the technological, functional, and physio-chemical analysis of prehistoric pigment from the Mousterian and Aurignacian levels of El Castillo Cave, Cantabria, Spain. My research will produce an integrated analysis of mineral pigmental materials within the context of ongoing debates surrounding the cognitive and symbolic capabilities of Neandertals in Europe.
With reference to cognitive archaeology, the scientific analysis of Neandertal symbolic materials can provide valuable and meaningful information regarding their mental processes, cognitive capabilities, and social structures.
Utilizing optical microscopy, Portable X-ray Fluoresence and Micro-Raman Spectroscopy, I hope to answer questions surrounding the nature of modification, use, composition, and procurement of pigments by Mousterian Neandertals in the Cantabrian region. Additionally, this project will contribute to a better understanding of the relationship and interactions between Neandertals and Modern Humans at El Castillo and explore issues regarding the creation of paintings and use of coloring materials at the site."