Exploration is a medium that reveals the ancient sites and also reveals the historical potential of the region. The excavation of an archaeological site yields its cultural sequence. The systematic classification of layers, enable the correct dating of antiquities and delineation of the various phases of activities at the site. Alter excavating these layers on the basis of principles of stratigraphy the artifacts are able to throw Iighf on the antiquity and development of the cultures at the site. The layers laid down as per the order of superimposition are largely formed on the basis of environmental inputs, which help in their differentiation into separate units. In later cultures the input of man made materials like potsherds, brickbats, ash, etc. form larger part of some layers helping in their easier differentiation.

The protohistoric period in Madhya Pradesh is represented by the Chalcolithic Cultures. During this period man's source of sustenance was dependent on agriculture. Unlike the earlier periods when stones were the main medium of making tools, now he learnt to make tools of copper, besides also using stone tools. The archaeological remains of this culture were obtained from: Besnagar, Mandsaur, Kayatha, Maheshwar, Navdatoli, Modi, Awra, Eran, Nagda, Pipliyalorka, Azadnagar,and Dangwada. The archaeological excavations conducted at these sites provide a glimpse to the ancient life in the region.
During the Chalcolithic period people were adept at making well shaped potteries decorated with ornamental designs. They used to construct houses of watlle and daub and settle down as village communities.

The gallery shows the artifacts obtained from Runija and Dangwada(Ujjain); Sarangpur (Rajgarh); Atudkhas (Khandwa); Pipliya lorka (Raisen); Besnagar (Vidisha); peetnagar (Khargone); Sawatpura (Sehore); Gangakhedi (Bhopal); Ninnore (Sehore); Mandsaur( Mandsaur); Pawaya (Gwalior) and Mohenjodaro excavations.