"An artifact or artefact (British English) is a general term for an item made or given shape by humans, such as a tool or a work of art, especially an object of archaeological interest."
Physical objects created, used, or modified by human beings that reveal insights into their cultures, behaviors, beliefs, and environments.
Definition of Artifacts: The term Artifact refers to any object that was created or modified by human beings. It includes a wide range of objects such as tools, weapons, clothing, pottery, and jewelry.
The Evolution of Artifacts: The study of Artifacts involves tracing their evolution over time. This includes the development of different materials and techniques used in their creation.
Cultural Influences: Artifacts can provide insight into the cultural influences that shaped their creation. For instance, the study of pottery can reveal the trade routes between different regions or the social status of the creators.
Museum and Conservation: Museums play a significant role in the preservation and exhibition of Artifacts. The study of conservation techniques and museum management can provide insight into the care and preservation of Artifacts.
Archaeological Techniques: The study of Artifacts involves the use of archaeological techniques such as excavation and analysis. This includes the study of stratigraphy, radiocarbon dating, and other methods used to establish the age and origin of Artifacts.
Material Analysis: Material analysis involves the study of the chemical and physical properties of Artifacts. This includes the use of microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and other methods to identify the materials and techniques used in Artifacts.
Social Significance: Artifacts can provide insight into the social significance of different objects. The study of clothing, for instance, can reveal the social status and occupation of the wearer.
Political Significance: Artifacts can also have political significance. For instance, the study of coins can reveal the political and economic systems of the society that created them.
Family History: Artifacts can also be an essential part of family history. The study of heirlooms, for instance, can provide insights into family traditions and values.
Artistic Significance: Artifacts can also have artistic significance. The study of pottery, for instance, can reveal the different styles and techniques used by different cultures.
Tools: Objects created for specific purposes or tasks such as cutting, digging, or building.
Weapons: Objects designed for inflicting damage or death like swords, guns, and armored vehicles.
Clothing: Items worn on the body for functional or aesthetic reasons.
Jewellery: Wearable decorative items made from precious metal or stones.
Pottery: Objects that create from clay and baked in high temperatures for domestic or ritual use.
Sculptures: Artworks created by carving or shaping materials such as stone, wood or metal.
Paintings: Two-dimensional artworks, created through the application of paint, pigment or ink on a surface.
Textiles: Materials made from fibers or fabrics, such as clothing, blankets and rugs.
Architecture: Structures designed for human use, such as houses, temples or public buildings.
Musical Instruments: Objects created to produce sound or music like trumpets, guitars or pianos.
Books: Written works, inscribed on leaves or pages, bound together into a volume.
Coins: Circulated items, made of metal, that serve as mediums of exchange for goods and services.
Toys: Objects created for play, such as games, puzzles, and dolls.
Vehicles: Transportation modes like cars, trains, airplanes or bicycles.
Photography: A method of capturing images usually printed on paper or shown through screens.
Electronics: Electrical devices designed for communication, computing or entertainment purposes.
Sporting Goods: Objects created for physical activities, such as balls, bats, and skis.
Medical Instruments: Objects used for examining, diagnosing, and treating patients like stethoscopes, syringes or scalpels.
Kitchenware: Objects used for cooking and eating, such as plates, knives, and pots.
Stationery: Writing materials such as paper, pens and pencils.
Religious Artifacts: Objects used for religious rituals or worship, such as prayer beads or religious texts.
Memorabilia: Collectible objects of personal or historical value, including antiques, souvenirs, and keepsakes.
Scientific Instruments: Objects used in scientific research, such as telescopes, microscopes and thermometers.
Furniture: Objects for functional or decorative use in a room, such as chairs, tables, and lamps.
Toys: Objects designed for children to play with, such as dolls, board games and puzzles.
Sports memorabilia: Collectible items related to sports, such as autographs, uniforms, and equipment.
Writings: Written works, such as books, manuscripts, and scrolls.
Decorative Arts: Objects created primarily for aesthetic purposes, such as tapestries, vases, and figurines.
Numismatics: The study of coins and currency.
Archeological Artifacts: Artifacts found through archaeological excavation, revealing history and cultura of a place or civilization.
"In archaeology, the word has become a term of particular nuance and is defined as an object recovered by archaeological endeavor, which may be a cultural artifact having cultural interest."
"In museums, the equivalent general term is normally 'object.'"
"In art history, perhaps artwork or a more specific term such as 'carving' can be used."
"The same item may be called all or any of these in different contexts, and more specific terms will be used when talking about individual objects, or groups of similar ones."
"Artifacts, ecofacts, and features can sometimes be found together at archaeological sites."
"Artifacts can exist in different types of context depending on the processes that have acted on them over time."
"A wide variety of analyses take place to analyze artifacts and provide information on them."
"The process of analyzing artifacts through scientific archaeology can be hindered by the looting and collecting of artifacts."
"The looting and collecting of artifacts sparks ethical debate."