Title: Late Bronze Age Figurines and Community Identity in Cyprus ... (Plus Job Market Insights) 

Abstract: In this talk, Dr. Booker will discuss her research on the contextual use and meaning of clay figurines on the island of Cyprus during the Late Bronze Age, ca. 1500-1100 BCE.  An analysis of excavated figurine material, which examines patterns in decorative elements, archaeological context, and archaeological assemblage, demonstrates that many figurines were closely related to the consumption of imported goods and, by extension, elite communities who controlled local economies and trade. Dr. Booker will also discuss opportunities for graduate students outside of academia and open the floor to Q&A. Dr. Booker has over 15 years of Mediterranean archaeological experience and is currently an Associate Archaeologist and Program Manager at a California-based CRM firm.