archaeological provenance

Archaeological provenance refers to the origin and history of an artifact, including where it was found, its context, and its journey through time. This information is crucial because it helps researchers understand the artifact's significance, cultural background, and the conditions under which it was used. Provenance includes details like the site of discovery, the layers of soil it came from, and its connections to other finds. Knowing an artifact's provenance allows archaeologists to piece together historical narratives and better appreciate the past.