Tangible, physical objects produced and utilized by a culture are central to its expression. These items, ranging from tools and technologies to clothing and architecture, provide a visible record of a society’s values, beliefs, and practices. Examples include dwellings built with specific materials reflective of climate and available resources, transportation methods indicating levels of technological advancement, and religious artifacts signifying spiritual practices.
Analyzing the physical artifacts of a group provides valuable insights into its history, adaptation to the environment, and social organization. Examining how such artifacts change over time reveals evolving cultural norms and the influence of external factors like trade and interaction with other societies. The study of these objects offers concrete evidence that complements written records, enriching understandings of past and present human experiences.