Oxygen isotope dendrochronology allows dating of historical timbers across a wide geographical region

Abstract

We explore the applicability and geographic reach of two northwest European stable oxygen isotope (δ¹⁸O) chronologies for the precision dating of annually resolved δ¹⁸O series developed from late 15th-century oak (Quercus sp.) roof timbers from St. James’ Church in Bruges, Belgium. In doing so this study assesses ring-width dendrochronology and provenance analysis alongside oxygen isotope dendrochronology in Belgium and its surrounding regions. The δ¹⁸O-series of the historical timbers display a high internal coherence, allowing the construction of a mean isotope series (1325–1468 CE). Cross-dating against master chronologies for Central England, U.K. and Fontainebleau, France, provide reliable matches that surpass statistical thresholds and quality control measures, corroborating the dating results obtained from conventional ring-width dating. Oxygen stable isotope dendrochronology emerges as a valuable tool for precise dating of historical timber structures. This pilot study demonstrates the applicability of existing reference chronologies beyond their core regions and underscores its significance in cultural heritage studies. Despite the demanding nature of the technique in terms of time and expertise, the potential benefits warrant continued investment in expanding the temporal and geographic coverage of well-replicated oxygen isotope reference chronologies.