The term for the study of ancient artifacts is "archaeology." This field encompasses the investigation and interpretation of material remains from past human societies, allowing researchers to understand historical cultures, behaviors, and technologies. Archaeologists excavate sites, analyze artifacts, and reconstruct past ways of life. The study of ancient artifacts can include tools, pottery, architecture, and everyday items, providing insights into social structures, economies, and interactions between different cultures. This discipline also employs methods like radiocarbon dating and stratigraphy to establish timelines and contexts, making archaeology a critical component of understanding human history.