Figurines Project

Link: http://figurines.stanford.edu

Archaeological objects form part of a multitude of interactions and transactions and may be subjected to transformation during their existence. The Stanford Figurines Project, directed by Professor Lynn Meskell, draws attention to the nature of both of these processes as an integral part to archaeological research and documentation.

The research revolves around figurines as one of the most highly contentious categories of archaeological objects, particularly at Çatalhöyük. The traditional documentation techniques are either aesthetisized photographic images that have helped to form and convey this ‘special' image or detailed database records that follow classifications that are convenient but questionable and are based on the assumption that there is one correct interpretation. In addition, it is often difficult to trace the ways in which the interpretations stem from the evidentiary base. This problematic situation is augmented by severe limitations in accessing the objects in question.

The project builds on video material and photographic imagery from 1993 to the present. Video recordings capture researchers and specialists in interaction with the objects. A collaborative web environment allows a distributed audience of scholars to engage in continuous discussion. The material is also being used for teaching.