What happens to the forgotten scraps left behind by early archaeologists?
In short: Archaeologists often leave behind more than just artifacts. This lecture explores the Petrie Museum’s collection of mundane items—like food wrappers and old invitations—that reveal the human side of field work, academic rivalries, and the untold stories of those often excluded from official historical records.
The Archaeological Ephemera project at the Petrie Museum of Egyptian and Sudanese Archaeology investigates items that exist in a liminal space between object and archive. These everyday remnants, such as jewellery boxes and cocoa tins, offer a unique perspective on the history of archaeology, framing it as a counterculture and highlighting the emotional bonds between collectors and their finds.
Led by doctoral researcher Lisa Randisi, the project seeks to recover voices often missing from formal publications, including students and excavators. By examining these materials, the initiative aims to develop more inclusive and representative museum practices, reflecting on the legacies of early archaeology and the impact of heritage engagement today.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Spotlight Lecture: Between Object and Archive
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