Prehistoric settlement and networks of interaction in the western Solomon Islands: a survey of Manning Strait
Abstract
The last millennium was a pivotal time in the creation of the rich canvas of cultural diversity which characterises Solomon Islands today. In the western Solomon Islands, this period saw major developments such as the emergence of a head-hunting tradition, monumental architecture, intensified production and circulation of shell valuables, and increasing contact with Europeans. The current study builds upon our understanding of culture historical transformations such as these that took place from the earliest archaeological evidence of settlement in the late Lapita period (~2700 BP) to recent history in this region of the Solomons. This traditional culture historical approach is partnered with newer theoretical outlooks by examining the study area, Manning Strait, as a seascape and investigating the formation of social identity through communally shared practices. Presented here is a synthesis of key findings made from over five months of fieldwork and various laboratory analyses carried out as part of this doctoral study between 2016-2020. A revised cultural sequence for the region which builds upon previous archaeological modelling is given. Additionally, stylistic and compositional evidence of pottery collected in Manning Strait is showcased which provides further insight into the prehistoric development of both long-distance and more localised patterns of inter-island interaction.
About the presenter
Charles Radclyffe is from Solomon Islands and recently completed his PhD in archaeology at the University of Otago, New Zealand, under the supervision of Professors Richard Walter and Glenn Summerhayes. He aspires to build a career in anthropological and archaeological research in Oceania, with a key focus on improving culture heritage management practices and the protection and preservation of kastom (‘traditional’) knowledge and culture in Solomon Islands. His general research interests include Oceanic prehistory, inter-island interaction and seascapes, ceramic analysis, archaeometry, culture heritage management and Solomon Islands.
Please be aware that we are still operating under Covid-19 regulations during public events. For those who will be attending, you will be asked to check in via QR code as a condition of entry. Those who are feeling unwell, who have travelled in from overseas or a Covid-19 hotspot in the last 14 days or have been in contact with Covid-19 positive persons, are asked not to attend the seminar. Hand sanitizers will be provided for attendee use at venue.
To contact Charles: c_radclyffe93@hotmail.com
Archaeology Working Papers: j.kariwiga@uq.edu.au for further details.
About Archaeology Working Papers
The Working Papers in Archaeology seminar series provides a forum for dissemination of archaeological research and ideas amongst UQ archaeology students and staff. All students are invited to attend the series and postgraduate students, from honours upwards, are invited to present their research. The aim is to provide opportunities for students, staff and those from outside UQ, to present and discuss their work in an informal environment. It is hoped that anyone interested in current archaeological directions, both within and outside the School and University, will be able to attend and contribute to the series.
