56 ARCHAEOLOGICALRECORDING
information loss that can often be caused by raising
them to the surface. A good in siturecord of an object
can sometimes be enough for specialist analysis and even
for initial publication. If the material is to be raised, and
it appears to be particularly delicate or fragmentary, it
is worth spending more time on a detailed record of it
while still in situ.
In siturecording should include the unique identi-
fication number (artefact number), a description of the
object, measurable dimensions and a sketch plan with
details of location, orientation, associated material/finds,
appropriate survey measurements and any important
features visible (figure 8.1). A more detailed in situ record
would include measured drawings and more intensive
photographic recording. Sometimes a quick photo with
a label will be helpful in clarifying the written informa-
tion of a particular find, even before it goes to specialists
or conservation. The final photograph of the artefact,
however, should have appropriate lighting, the artefact
cleaned, and scale and labelling consistent with publica-
tion standards where possible.
Certain classes of object and material are particularly
common in maritime archaeology, for example, guns
(which are common on wrecked vessels), anchors and
timber in the form of elements or complete structures such
as ships, harbours, bridges and wharfs etc. For specifics
concerning the recording of guns and anchors, please
consult appendices 1 and 2. For timber recording see below.
There are general factors that need to be recorded for
each object:- Position: for example, site name/code, trench code,
location measurements/position co-ordinates. - Unique identification number (artefact number).
Figure 8.1 In situ recording: a copy of part of a diver’s recording form completed during excavation of the Mary Rose
in 1982. (Mary Rose Trust)