2nd May 2008, 11:20 AM
Quote:quote:
If a re-cut occurs, the same sequence of processes will obviously re-occur, so that a second 'primary fill' can occur above a secondary fill in a feature.
I'm not sure this explanation works. If a pit was re-cut then the sequence would be for example:
(tertiary fill of re-cut)
|
(secondary fill of re-cut)
|
(primary fill of re-cut)
|
[re-cut]
|
(secondary fill of primary cut)
|
(primary fill of primary cut)
|
[cut]
I.e. stratigraphically there are two primary fills and two cuts - the recut itself being a stratigraphic entry.
The post-hole is an interesting feature that can explain this scenario. The posthole is cut, then a post is placed within the hole (the post is the primary fill), the post is then packed (secondary fill). At a later date the post is withdrawn (i.e. the primary fill is removed) and the resulting void silts up. This silting up of the void that the post previously occupied is the tertiary fill, however its position within the cut is that of the primary fill.
I think this could explain the phenomenon which is being described.
All the best