Investigating infant feeding strategies at Roman Bainesse through Bayesian modelling of incremental dentine isotopic data

Cocozza, Carlo; Fernandes, Ricardo; Ughi, Alice; Gross, Marcus und Alexander, Michelle M. (2021): Investigating infant feeding strategies at Roman Bainesse through Bayesian modelling of incremental dentine isotopic data. In: International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, Vol. 31, No. 3: pp. 429-439

Abstract

We present the first study employing Bayesian modelling of isotopic measurements on dentine increments (five human upper first molars) to address Romano-British infant feeding practices at Bainesse (UK). The stable carbon and nitrogen isotope results modelled to 6-month intervals with novel OsteoBioR software revealed some common patterns, with weaning not starting before the age of 6 months and higher animal protein consumption after the age of seven. The latter possibly indicated a 'survival' threshold, evidenced by historical sources and osteological data, hence marking a rise in social status of children. The important role of Bainesse as commercial hub in relation to the fort of Cataractonium does not exclude a priori the possibility that medical treatises and Roman culture were known at the site. However, our results also showed significant intra-individual differences with weaning cessation taking place between 2 and 5 years, suggesting that these were followed only partially and other aspects influenced family decisions on infant feeding practices in Bainesse.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Faculties: Cultural Studies > Department of Ancient and Modern Cultures
• Subjects: 900 History and geography > 900 Geschichte
• ISSN: 1047-482X
• Language: English