MUSE 6125:Artifact Studies

3 Class Hours 0 Laboratory Hours 3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite: Admission to the MA in Art & Design.
This course surveys various categories of artifacts and in so doing illustrates the methodology that lies behind working with this kind of material culture. This methodology is applicable to any period or civilization. Categories to be explored in detail may include: ceramic vessels; tools and weapons; bronze and terra cotta statuettes; oil lamps; glass; and coins and medals. This study of material objects will go beyond mere identification and typology to demonstrate how they can be used to understand the past. The course involves hands-on work with artifacts, as well as visits to the store-room of a public collection. Students will develop research projects on an artifact type or designated body of material of their own choice.