WINTER 2024
EXCAVATION REPORT
Abstract
The excavation of Sector 4 within the Seoul Metro Archaeological Zone yielded significant artifacts dating to the mid-2020s. Among these were a marble statue and a pair of remarkably well-preserved shoes and a handbag. These findings contribute critical insights into 21st-century material culture, preservation technologies, and artistic priorities.
Site Identification and Context
- Site Name: Seoul Metro Archaeological Zone, Sector 4
- Excavation Dates: July 14, 2XXX – December 3, 2XXX
- Coordinates: 37.5665° N, 126.9780° E
- Cultural Layer: Early Anthropocene, 21st Century (circa 2024)
Abstract
The excavation of Sector 4 within the Seoul Metro Archaeological Zone yielded significant artifacts dating to the mid-2020s. Among these were a marble statue and a pair of remarkably well-preserved shoes and a handbag. These findings contribute critical insights into 21st-century material culture, preservation technologies, and artistic priorities.
Stratigraphic Context
- Layer Composition: The artifacts were recovered from a compacted loess layer, interspersed with anthropogenic inclusions such as concrete fragments, polymer residues, and oxidized metallic elements.
- Depositional Environment: Subterranean conditions were characterized by low oxygen levels and moderate soil acidity, which facilitated the partial preservation of organic materials.
Nr. 4T24WCGNOJ1-E03
Obj.
Artifact Descriptions
1. Marble Statue (Catalogue No. 4T24WCGNOJ1-E03)
- Dimensions: Height: 1.85m; Width: 0.65m
- Condition: Surface weathering consistent with prolonged burial; identifiable erosion patterns suggest post-depositional chemical interactions.
- Analysis: X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) confirmed high calcium carbonate content, indicative of classical sculpting techniques.
- Cultural Interpretation: Likely a commemorative or decorative object, reflecting aesthetic ideals of the 2020s.
Nr. 4T24WCGNOJ2-E01
Obj.
Artifact Descriptions
2. Marble Statue (Catalogue No. 4T24WCGNOJ2-E01)
- Dimensions: Height: 1.53m; Width: 1.08m
- Condition: Surface weathering consistent with prolonged burial; identifiable erosion patterns suggest post-depositional chemical interactions.
- Analysis: X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) confirmed high calcium carbonate content, indicative of classical sculpting techniques.
- Cultural Interpretation: Likely a commemorative or decorative object, reflecting aesthetic ideals of the 2020s.
Nr. 4T24WCGNOJ3-I01
Obj.
Artifact Descriptions
3. Marble Statue (Catalogue No. 4T24WCGNOJ3-I01)
- Dimensions: Height: 1.76m; Width: 0.98m
- Condition: Surface weathering consistent with prolonged burial; identifiable erosion patterns suggest post-depositional chemical interactions.
- Analysis: X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) confirmed high calcium carbonate content, indicative of classical sculpting techniques.
- Cultural Interpretation: Likely a commemorative or decorative object, reflecting aesthetic ideals of the 2020s.