Scientific and Ethical Considerations in Sampling Artefacts in Archaeological Sciences

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Department of Conservation and Archaeometry, Tabriz Islamic Art University. Tabriz. Iran.

2 Cultural Heritage and Tourism Research Institute, Tehran. Iran.

Abstract

Sampling historical-cultural artefacts from museums and excavation sites is a delicate and critical phase in
archaeological research and the conservation of cultural heritage. This process, essential for generating scientific
data, must follow established scientific principles as well as pertinent ethical guidelines in the field. Adhering to
these principles is crucial to prevent damage to the artefacts and preserve their cultural and historical significance.
Employing a descriptive-analytical approach, this study systematically examines the scientific and ethical challenges
involved in this process, utilising library resources and the authors’ field experiences. The findings revealed that
ethical and optimal sampling of historical-cultural artefacts requires the integration of three key dimensions: 1)
Technical dimension, involving the selection of minimally invasive, high-precision methods and the development
of standardised protocols for sampling; 2) Ethical dimension, encompassing adherence to the five core principles
of minimum intervention, scientific justification, transparency, accountability, and respect for stakeholders’
rights; and 3) Managerial dimension, which includes establishing controlled sample repositories. These findings
underscore the necessity of formulating national scientific and ethical sampling guidelines. Furthermore, they
demonstrate how implementing such a framework can safeguard artefacts from physical damage, enhance the
purposefulness and accuracy of sampling, prevent resource waste, reduce the frequency of sampling through
improved access to collected data (via sample databases), and most importantly, ensure the satisfaction of current
and future stakeholders.

Keywords

References

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Iranian Journal of Archaeological Studies
Volume 15, Issue 2
2025
Pages 99-118

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