Studying inscriptions in their original locations is crucial to epigraphy and historiography. When inscriptions are found at archaeological sites and excavated, their context (such as the buildings and other objects surrounding them, along with their stratigraphic position) can help scholars determine the age of the inscription. They may use radiocarbon dating of any adjacent remains of organic matter or analyze the styles of nearby artifacts. In other instances the shape of the inscribed object itself may permit stylistic and iconographic determination. The type and variety of script used, and especially the style of writing, can allow for paleographic dating.
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