Zur Topologie des bronzezeitlichen Deponierens. Von der Handlungstheorie zur Raumanalyse.

The understanding of depositions as part of a social practice is not just an alternative approach to the traditional research question concerning the motives behind Bronze Age depositions, but mainly enables a stronger focus on the question how and where these depositions took place. The present paper addresses the questions whether and how (1) the depositional practice can be referred to the landscape, and (2) the structural meaning of space be set in relation to the depositional practice. Against the background of practice theory, and in discussion of archaeological evidence, a reciprocal, dynamic model for the understanding of depositions (as part of a practice) and landscape (as a materialized structure or worldview) is outlined. The deposition of objects in distinct places thus creates, confirms and renews the worldview, while in turn, the worldview structures the deposition of objects by suggesting specific places (for example marshes). To what extent this model is reflected in the archaeological record, and can be approached quantitatively, is shown in the spatial analysis of hypothetical material traces of a Siberian community. The distribution map of material traces shows patterns identifying the deposition practice, and reveals the presence of a mental spatial concept taking into account the natural surroundings. Answers to the questions on the nature of the practice and the corresponding role of the landscape can therefore be found in the spatio-relational dimension of Bronze Age depositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]