Ethnography of Archaeological Excavation, Laboratory Analysis, and Site Development

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This project is an ethnography of archaeological knowledge production. The central objective was to observe the multitude of practices involved in the reconstruction of a Jomon period pit dwelling, beginning with excavation and ending with rebuilding. There have been three central pillars of research including: (1) archaeological excavations at Suwahara site (Hokuto City, Yamanashi) in 2019, 2021, and 2022: (2) comparative fieldwork in Japan and overseas examining buildings reconstructed based on archaeological and historical evidence; and (3) documenting and participating in the reconstruction of a Middle Jomon (Sori 5 phase) pit dwelling at Umenoki historical site (Hokuto City, Yamanashi) in 2022.The excavations at Suwahara site aim to understand the materials and structure of Middle Jomon pit dwellings. For the ethnography, our research focuses on the learning processes by which one learns how to "see" relevant information in site features, and how they acquire the skills to make remains accessible and meaningful.Comparative fieldwork has focused on prehistoric and ancient period reconstructions located at sites throughout Japan. Over 360 sites containing approximately 1,000 buildings have been identified, with approximately half having been documented. Interview data with building designers and builders have also been collected.Experimental reconstruction of a Jomon pit dwelling included stone tool making workshops, felling trees and collection of materials, digging a pit and postholes with antler, and the forming and assembly of the structure and roof.