Definition: Director of the Danish National Museum of Denmark in the early 19th century, C.J. Thomsen wrestled with the problem of trying to order the museum's collection of artifacts, gathered on expeditions throughout the world. His passion, fueled by his predecessor Rasmus Nyerup, led to the creation of the three-age system of chronology which continues to plague graduate students to this day. Thomsen sorted out the artifacts by class of material--Stone, Bronze, and Iron--and believed (rightly) that they were in chronological order. His belief was tested in the ground by archaeologist J.A.A. Worsaae.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
