From the Field: The Use of Photogrammetry to Explore Complex Burials in Archaeological Contexts

Abstract: Archaeological excavation is an inherently destructive process, as such, the detailed documentation of the contexts is crucial. Digital advancements allowed for photogrammetry documentation and 3D model development of complex burial/contexts for post-excavation analysis. The 3D models materialise post-deposition events, destroyed as a consequence of the excavation process, offering a view, often not attained through the traditional record. To showcase the benefits of such approaches, we explored a 16th-17th century double burial containing the remains of two people, excavated in Lisbon’s riverside (Portugal). Complementing field recording protocols (photographs, sketches, plans and written descriptions), digital photogrammetry was used as a documentary method, aiming to reconstruct the double-burial digitally. This resulted in detailed data gathering in a shorter time span, when compared to traditional methods this approach is extremely beneficial in fieldwork where time constraints are often a concern. Furthermore, it was possible to map with precision subtle anatomical bone displacement and interconnectivity between bone elements appertaining to the two people who were buried simultaneously, furthering the understanding of body decomposition and any post-depositional disturbing events. This approach to field recording opens the possibility of creating 3D models for 1) better understanding and comparative analysis with other sites/similar burials; 2) it may be used as teaching resources on all issues related to archaeothanatology and complex burials; 3) serves as a digital preservation of the site.

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This work (ID117) was submitted to the DARIAH Annual Event 2024 - Workflows: Digital Methods for Reproducible Research Practices in the Arts and Humanities (Lisbon, Portugal. June 18-21, 2024), and is composed of two posters each framing a specific topic, namely the field and the laboratory.

1. The first poster - From the Field: The Use of Photogrammetry to Explore Complex Burials in Archaeological Contexts (ID117a) - focuses on photogrammetric documentation in the field.
2. The second poster  - In the Lab: The Use of Photogrammetry as a Means of Digital Reconstruction and Preservation of Fragmented Human Remains (ID117b) - will take the workflow to the laboratory.