ESR 11: Exploring the function of hearths through biomolecular approaches (Nice/York)

image of Ivy Notterpek standing in front of trees

Ivy Notterpek

Before joining ChemArch, Ivy (they/them) graduated with a distinction from the University of Oxford (MSc Archaeological Science) and with summa cum laude honors from Barnard Collage of Columbia University (B.A. Anthropology, Archaeology). Their masters research investigated the potential of non-invasive ZooMS for the successful taxonomic identification of Palaeolithic-age osseous remains. Their research now investigates the chemical and molecular characterisation of organic residues associated with combustion features, particularly through lipidomic and benzene polycarboxylic acid analysis. They seek to relate the insights provided by these methods to factors such as the fuel selection strategies employed by Palaeolithic commuities, the function(s) of their combustion features, and the diagenetic processes affecting the preservation and distribution of pyrogenic organic matter. Ivy is passionate about all things Palaeolithic, and hopes to blend rigorous science with theory and art to connect with the wider public about the importance of understanding our shared past. 


Twitter: @ivythearchy

My PhD Project

Hearths fulfill a range of functions, from cooking to transforming raw materials. Despite their central role in human technical and symbolic activities throughout the Palaeolithic, little is known about their function and management i.e., the range of fuels used, or the function and duration of combustion structures. The objective of this thesis is to test the potential of several biochemical methods for the recovery and characterization of organic residues associated with combustion features. Issues of preservation and the representativeness of the organic matter will be addressed through laboratory experimentation. Applied to the study of several Palaeolithic sequences, this project will provide information on fire-related activities and the development of these practices through a diachronic perspective. 

CV

Publications

Notterpek, I., 2022. The Materiality of Perforated Human Teeth and Ivory Skeuomorphs in the European Upper Palaeolithic, in: Innovative Approaches to Archaeology: Proceedings of the Graduate Archaeology at Oxford Conference 2020, BAR International Series. British Archaeological Reports, Oxford, pp. 29–45.

Agostini, M.R., Notterpek, I., 2020. Cosmological Expressions and Medicine Stones in the Ancestral Pueblo World. KIVA 86, 403–427. https://doi.org/10.1080/00231940.2020.1832406 

Supervisor

Isabelle Théry-Parisot (CEPAM)

Co-supervisor

Oliver Craig (UoY)