Tea-Break Archaeology
The world is full of incredible archaeological sites, inspiring historic figures, and breathtaking ancient artefacts. But what about those everyday objects that have become so essential to our daily life that we don't even notice them any more? In this podcast, professional archaeologist and journalist Dr Matilda Siebrecht and co-host Jessica van Dam, explore the deep history and archaeological origins of the most familiar objects and crafts, sometimes enlisting the help of an expert guest speaker to really dig into the topic. Ever wanted to find out the history of the simple notebook? What the ancient equivalent of a computer was? When we started using doors? Then plug in your headphones, grab your hot beverage of choice, and tune in!
Archaeology of Forks - Ep 58
It’s time for the main course, and the most surprisingly complicated of cutlery items covered so far in the podcast: the fork! Jessica and Matilda dive into the history and archaeology of the fork, and discover that it’s not quite such a simple tool as they originally thought. Why do Americans and Germans hold their forks so differently? What’s the difference between a fork and a fork-like object? And who was using a spork in the 4th century? Tune in to find out!
Archaeology of Spoons - Ep 57
In this second installment of the archaeology of cutlery, Jessica and Matilda discuss the evolution of spoons. From the earliest scoop with a shell to the latest intricately carved wooden love spoon, these objects have become a huge part of human society all around the world. But how much do we actually know about the (pre)history of spoons? Tune in to find out!
Archaeology of Knives - Ep 56
Join Jessica and Matilda as they dive into the first installment of a mini series on the everyday archaeology of cutlery, starting with knives! But what exactly is a knife, and how can we recognise it in the archaeological and historic records? Together, our hosts discuss the difference between swords and knives, the benefits of flint while travelling, and why iron and copper hate each other.
A new direction and a new co-host! - Teabreak 55
It’s time for a new era of Tea-break Archaeology, as we introduce the new co-host, Jessica van Dam! Together, Jessica and Matilda discuss their backgrounds in archaeology and conservation, and how their experience led them to specialise in historic and prehistoric objects. Listen in to hear them chat about blacksmithing versus crochet, Korean multi-purpose knives from the 1800s, and misaligned drilling holes in amber beads!