Prehistoric Metallurgy Course

This is a practical and theoretical short course on the use of experimental archaeology in examining the production of metals at the beginning of the Bronze Age. Through lectures on prehistoric archaeometallurgy and daily practical workshops, the course will provide valuable experience for anyone working in this field or interested in it (either at undergraduate or postgraduate level).
During the practical sessions students will work in small groups to build, operate and record smelting hearths and then use these to produce metals (copper and tin). In addition these groups will make much of the ancillary equipment such as the bellows, tuyeres, crucibles and moulds used in the production of metals from ores. Students will finish with the casting of small objects such as bronze or copper axes.
The course will be held at the world-famous Butser Ancient Farm and the tutors will be Dr Simon Timberlake of the Cambridge Archaeological Unit (University of Cambridge) and Fergus Milton of Butser Ancient Farm.
10 – 12 places available, cost £300 (4 days teaching).
Contact: Simon Timberlake simon.timberlake@btinternet.com or Fergus Milton fergus@fingerbuster.com.