Author(s)

J. Bláha

Abstract

There are various macroscopic traces recognizable and readable on the surfaces of historical structures and materials. According to their origin they can be divided into several groups including traces of the transportation or other manipulation during construction; geometric schedules, height and direction lines, auxiliary design sketches; signs of wear and natural aging of materials; structural failures and impact of natural disasters; traces of subsequent additional modifications or conservation interventions; small epigraphical relics such as inscriptions, datings, the names of artisans or craftsmen, various graffiti etc. The traces of working tools are among the most important ones. They allow us to reconstruct forgotten arts and techniques performed by craftsmen or artisans in the past. For tool marks examination, the original surfaces intact with no later modifications or even conservation activities are very important. The sites with authentically preserved surfaces or details should therefore be registered, documented and then rigorously protected from adverse environmental factors and, if possible, in future spared any interventions including even attempts at conservation and restoration. Keywords: construction materials, documentation, hand tools, hand crafts, tool marks examination, traceology, use-wear analysis.

Keywords

Keywords: construction materials, documentation, hand tools, hand crafts, toolmarks examination, traceology, use-wear analysis.