an archaeologist carefully brushes dirt away from a partially buried ancient pottery vessel using a small brush. She wears a wide-brimmed hat and kneels beside the excavation grid marked with string lines. The gentle brushing reveals intricate patterns and designs on the ceramic surface that have been hidden for centuries. As more soil is removed, additional artifacts like coins and tools become visible in the surrounding earth. A fellow researcher nearby examines previously discovered artifacts laid out on a nearby table, documenting each find. Graduate students work with measuring tools and cameras to record the exact position of each discovery. the study of human history and prehistory through the excavation of sites and the analysis of artifacts and other physical remains