Newcastle University
l.hitchens2@newcastle.ac.uk
My PhD project is about Roman dodecahedra, found only in the Northwest provinces. I’m performing empirical research on them to collect data on their chemistry, use-wear analysis, sensory qualities, and manufacturing methods. I’m also doing experimental archaeology by bronze-casting reproductions with original materials and methods, which is very interesting (and fun!). Unfortunately, there is a great deal of misinformation and speculation about dodecahedra on the internet, which consumes too much of my time to deal with, but it’s worth it to study these fascinating objects that have previously been under-researched by serious archaeological science. My interdisciplinary supervisory panel includes experts in multiple pyrotechnological crafts, bronze use-wear, smelting and casting experimentation, materials science, chemistry and engineering, Roman Britain, small finds, and material culture.
keywords: dodecahedra, dodecahedron, archaeological science, experimental, empirical.