by Alexandra Mansilla
Archaeologist With Film Cameras. Interview With Ammar AlBanna
2 Apr 2024
We are all familiar with the typical image that comes to mind when we hear the word archaeology: dinosaurs, bones, people digging in the sand, and that inherent sense of mystery, as it is all about uncovering the secrets of the past. It is a common perception. Intrigued by this field, we decided to delve deeper by speaking with an archaeologist. That is when we connected with Ammar AlBanna — an archaeologist who transitioned from digging up artefacts to working at the Zayed National Museum. He offered us invaluable insights into the world of archaeology and also shared his passion for film cameras.
— Ammar, we know so little about you. Are you from Dubai?
— I am from Dubai. I'm an Emirati born and raised. Both of my parents are from Dubai as well. They have lived here their whole lives.
— What do they do?
— So my mother works as a special needs specialist, like an educator, and my father used to work in HR.
— So, no archaeology in your family.
— No!
— How did it all happen?
— I have always had a passion for history and archaeology since my childhood. As I progressed through high school and began contemplating my career path, I entertained the idea of delving deeper into this passion. Initially, I considered studying abroad in the US or UK, but eventually, I decided to explore options closer to home. That is when I discovered that Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi offered a Bachelor's in History of Art and Archaeology. After completing my military service, I enrolled in the program. The curriculum included a year of French language study and three years focused on archaeology and art history.
— Where do you work now?
— My previous job was at the Department of Tourism and Archeology in Umm Al Quwain, and now I am an associate curator at Zayed National Museum.
Source: Ammar's personal archive
— What are your exact responsibilities there?
— Basically, my responsibility lies in curating the galleries within the museum. We are in charge of managing the collections that come through, deciding which pieces and artefacts are included, and determining how they are displayed. This involves shaping the narrative for each exhibit, whether it is the museum as a whole, specific galleries, or individual showcases. So, I have transitioned from excavating artefacts to selecting which ones grace our museum's displays.
— So, that is quite different from what you did before. Why did you decide to make these changes?
— I have had an introduction to the practical world of archaeology, having spent time on excavation sites. However, I have always been intrigued by the other side of the spectrum — the museum aspect. You have one side dedicated to the actual excavation sites, but then there is the world of museums. I wanted to gain a general understanding of museum operations. As I contemplate continuing my studies, aiming for a master's degree and perhaps even a PhD, I want to test out and then decide what to choose, whether to focus more on archaeology or museum-oriented studies.
The museum is one of the amazing opportunities available right now, especially very impressive and huge Zayed National Museum. So to be part of that team and to be a part of that project, it is really an impressive thing to do, and it is something I can truly say I'm honored to be a part of.
— And for the first time when you started working there, didn't you miss that feeling of digging the ground?
— A hundred per cent, that is always on my mind. But honestly, I find value in both. Digging has its charm, especially in the winter months. However, when summer arrives, the appeal of being indoors grows stronger.
Source: Ammar's personal archive
— During the “digging” period of your career, did you explore only the Middle East?
— Actually, I participated in two practical digs in different locations. Firstly, I attended my Field School in Oman, at Ras al-Hadd, at the easternmost point of the peninsula. This experience served as my introduction to archaeology immediately following my university studies. Then,I went back home; I engaged in excavations in Umm Al Quwain. I spent nearly two years working on various excavation projects throughout the area.
— So, I'm speaking from the perspective of an ordinary person receiving information about archaeologists finding something. But could you describe the entire process? For example, how do you determine where to excavate? What methods are used for the investigations?
— Just like a quick recap. Excavations, in general, began in the UAE around the 1950s and 60s. This exploration continued from the 1960s through the 80s and 90s, gradually uncovering significant sites such as those in Abu Dhabi — Umm an-Nar civilisation. So, we already have these well-known sites, a general database, that were recognised for their rich archaeological potential.
Excavation seasons in this region typically run only from November to April because summer is too hot. We allocate time to specific sites during these periods, shifting our focus as needed. In the summer, the focus shifts to compiling and analysing data, writing reports, and preparing presentations for seminars and conferences.
While our attention is primarily on well-established sites, we also periodically conduct general surveys. These surveys often target areas adjacent to known sites or locations where significant pottery scatter indicates potential human occupation.
Our surveying techniques have evolved over time, beginning with high-tech tools such as drone surveillance and GPS mapping. We then employ geomorphic scanning, lidar scanning, and on-foot reconnaissance to thoroughly assess the terrain and potential sites. This meticulous approach ensures we uncover as much information as possible, leading to meaningful archaeological discoveries.
— Okay, so once you find something, what is the next stage? Do you explore these pieces yourself, or do you give them to other specialists who can determine the era they are from?
— It is always a collaborative effort within the team, comprised of experts. During excavation, we work together collectively. Everything we discover is meticulously catalogued and archived.
Each day, as we excavate, we uncover various artefacts such as bones, stone tools, and metal implements. These findings are bagged according to their locations. And then, we start assessing the process. Depending on the season and our agenda, we generally have a basic understanding of the artefacts and their historical periods. However, for more in-depth research, we may engage specialists. For instance, if we unearth Islamic pottery, we might enlist the expertise of someone specifically knowledgeable in early Islamic pottery. These specialists examine our findings in detail, often conducting studies or providing reports, which we then incorporate into our overall excavation documentation.
Source: Ammar's personal archive
— Obvious question to archaeologist: What is your favourite artefact you have found?
— That is very hard to answer. Every time you go out and start excavating, you find something even more amazing.
I think one of the most special experiences I recall was in Oman when we were exploring a Neolithic site dating back to around 3,000 BC. As we sifted through buckets of sand, all we saw was a monotonous blend of shells, sand, and rock, creating a beige landscape. However, amidst this ordinary scene, under the sun, I spotted a shiny green speck of copper. Instantly, I felt a spark of excitement within me. I showed it to one of the lead archaeologists, asking them to examine what I had found. They confirmed it was indeed copper, a seemingly simple discovery yet held immense significance. Also… I remember the first decorative bead I uncovered, crafted from shells.
You know, you always have that generic idea of finding gold. And you find gold coins, which is really impressive. But the true marvel lies in deciphering the inscriptions and admiring the intricate decorations. These coins, adorned with Roman-like imagery but bearing Aramaic script, found in an unexpected location, serve as tangible links connecting various civilisations and regions. Moments like these highlight the richness and interconnectedness of human history, all encapsulated within a single piece of metal.
Pottery might seem mundane or ordinary at first glance — it is just fired mud. However, even from a small fragment, one can discern a wealth of information. The origin of the pottery, whether from Iraq, Iran, India, or China, can often be determined by distinct characteristics such as colours and decorative styles. Moreover, the functions these pieces served provide insights into the daily lives of people from different parts of the world and across various time periods.
Whether it is a gold coin or a shard of pottery, what truly captivates is the narrative woven into its existence. Holding such an artefact, one can't help but marvel at the thought that the last person to handle it lived perhaps thousands of years ago. This connection to the past, this tangible link to bygone eras, renders these objects truly remarkable.
— All these pieces are very fragile. Have you broken something?
— Haha, no! I am clean. But you are right; some pieces are very fragile, and some are surprisingly sturdy. Of course, we try to take care of them very carefully.
Source: Ammar's personal archive
— What is the hardest during explorations?
— Setting the heat aside, as we tend to adapt to it over time, I believe archaeology is becoming increasingly meticulous and detailed with each passing day. The focus is shifting towards a deeper understanding rather than merely cataloguing the artefacts found. It is not just about tallying up the number of coins, cups, or swords discovered. That is not the primary goal of archaeology.
I would say it is more about understanding the narrative and lifestyle of that period. It is not simply about excavating a room and checking off items found. Instead, we strive to comprehend each layer, examining what it is made of and the artefacts it contains. Personally, I find it challenging to understand all these layers. At the end of the day, you are just looking at beige sand. A lot of beidge sand.
I often call this process "reading the sand." Understanding the transition from one phase to the next can be particularly challenging, especially in areas with loose sand. This challenge is compounded when dealing with older civilisations where the material is scarce. For instance, in Islamic sites, there is typically an abundance of bones and ceramics that aid in identifying the different phases. However, in Neolithic sites, the evidence may be limited to shells and bones, making it more challenging to interpret.
Certainly, this is something that comes with experience. While it can be intimidating at first, the only way to truly grasp it is by immersing oneself in the field and gaining firsthand experience.
Despite the difficulties, I find the process incredibly rewarding. It is not about the number of finds but rather the quality. It is really impressive when you find only one bead rather than sifting through six bags of pottery.
— Digging for hours and seeing nothing is difficult. You have to be very patient!
— Exactly! But it is a different type of meditation.
— Another obvious question to archaeologist: Have you found some bones?
— We find a lot of animal bones, fireplaces, cooking areas, and remnants such as fish bones. Occasionally, we also stumble upon human remains, including burials from the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Stone Age.
Handling human remains requires meticulous care and attention. It is a slow process, often involving specialists such as forensic experts who focus solely on this aspect of excavation. These specialists help us extract valuable information, using techniques like DNA analysis and detailed observations to unravel who was there in that period, what they used these pieces for, etc.
— And could you please name the oldest artefact you have found?
— Um, I think it might be one of the small shell beads that we found, or perhaps even a stone artefact, like a flint tool such as an arrowhead or a small blade. I believe it dates back to the Neolithic period, around 4,000 to 3,000 BC.
— You also like to capture what you do with your camera. How did you start taking these amazing photos?
— I have always been interested in anything vintage, like listening to vinyl records and using a typewriter. When it comes to photography, it is a passion I have had since childhood. I experimented with digital photography when I was younger, but it never really stuck with me. Instead, I found myself drawn to the nostalgia of family albums, flipping through the pages filled with memories of us as kids, our parents, and siblings. I wanted to recreate those moments, to capture the essence of my experiences with friends, family gatherings in Dubai, and drives through the mountains. I wanted to do it the same way as the albums were done. So, I searched for a shop in Dubai and picked up a camera!
After mastering how to load the film, I went through a few trial rolls before finally getting a complete set of photos. I encountered some blurry shots, others were not well-focused, and there were various other issues — it was a very experimental early phase. It was a learning process full of experimentation and challenges, but I was hooked. I fell in love with the entire process — the careful selection of film, setting up the camera, and the anticipation of not knowing how the photos would turn out until they were developed.
Working with film makes you appreciate each shot more. It makes you count each frame. You don’t want to waste shots; you have to keep in mind that you are going to shoot something else.
That mindset led me to explore different cameras, formats, and techniques. I wondered about the differences between medium format and 35mm. Or what if I ventured into large-format photography? Perhaps one day, I could even transition into shooting an actual Super 8 video film. This curiosity led me down various rabbit holes of exploration and discovery.
Source: Ammar's personal archive
— You have a big collection of cameras now!
Oh yes, around 12 or 14 cameras.
— Is there one that you use the most?
I think my Pentax Spotmatic. It is the second camera I got, and the one I usually take with me on my travels. It is always by my side.
— And the last question: What is your favourite historical period?
Um, some time ago, a significant part of my fascination lay in what is often considered to be generic and famous answers, like the Roman Empire, ancient Greek civilisations, and Egypt. For the longest time, I was captivated by those ones, especially during my early years of university. I had a strong desire to delve deeper into these civilisations and even considered pursuing studies abroad immediately after completing my education.
However, over time, I began to realise the richness of the civilisations in our own region. As our understanding of history grew, I developed a deep appreciation for civilisations like Magan and others that existed here.
Contrary to the common belief that this region's history is relatively recent, with its narrative beginning only in the 1800s or 1900s, archaeological discoveries have revealed a much older story. We have uncovered artefacts dating back thousands of years, highlighting the depth and complexity of our history. For instance, evidence suggests that human presence here dates back 125,000 years. This realisation led me to acknowledge and cherish the civilisations that flourished in our region, placing them above even renowned civilisations like Mesopotamia and Rome.
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