chaîne opératoire

Chaîne opératoire refers to the step-by-step process involved in making an artifact, from selecting raw materials to the final finished item. It’s used by archaeologists and anthropologists to understand how ancient tools or objects were produced, used, and discarded. By analyzing each stage—such as sourcing materials, crafting methods, and usage—we gain insights into the skills, technologies, and cultural practices of past societies. Essentially, it’s a detailed reconstruction of the entire life cycle of an artifact, helping us understand human behavior and technological development through time.