Detection! Recovering Ancient Indigenous Knowledge Through Science

Rebecca Stone, Renée Stein, and Doug Mulford (Emory University) in collaboration with Ruth Ann Armitage (Eastern Michigan University), Incorporating Plant Teachers 2022 by Adam Forrester and Steve Bransford; Interactive exhibit: Dana Haaguard with Doug Mulford

What does ancient pottery from the Americas have to teach us about the use of mind-altering substances?

Detection! highlights research to identify residues found in ancient ceramic vessels from Central and South America. Curators and conservators at Emory’s Carlos Museum are collaborating with chemists to analyze small samples using mass spectrometry. This powerful tool breaks molecules into pieces that can be sorted and counted by mass to identify the compounds present. This technique is also used in forensic science, pharmaceutical research, and sports pharmacology. Carlos Museum collaborators are looking for stimulants such as caffeine and tryptamines that provide clues about ceremonial beverages derived from sacred plants or animals depicted on the vessels. Studying these substances and their Indigenous contexts reveals information about how ancient people used such substances to augment their experiences, assist physical and emotional healing, and connect with the natural and supernatural worlds.

Read more about the work.