Ochre as a preservation reservoir for archaeological biomolecules. The use of ochre in ancient artwork and adornments is widespread. As ochre is metal oxide-rich, its antimicrobial properties act as a

Description

Ochre as a preservation reservoir for archaeological biomolecules. The use of ochre in ancient artwork and adornments is widespread. As ochre is metal oxide-rich, its antimicrobial properties act as a preservative agent for intermixed organic binding agents. This project, through proteomic analysis of ochre-laden residues on archaeological materials, will explore the plant or animal products used to facilitate ochre use in the past. Proteins can illuminate the tissues (blood, milk, saliva) mixed with ochre, allowing insights into ancient human-animal-plant interactions. The completion of this project will: 1) clearly demonstrate the viability of ochre-based residues as a reservoir for biomolecules, and 2) provide insights into primary and secondary products from wild and domesticated species in the past.. Scheme: Discovery Early Career Researcher Award. Field: 4301 - Archaeology. Lead: Dr Shevan Wilkin