Archeomalacology
Archaeomalacology is a branch of archeozoology that deals with the remains of molluscs ( snails and mussels ) found during archaeological excavations . The molluscs were used by humans as food , their shells served as material or as jewelry. In this respect, archeomalacology stands at the interface between archeology and malacology .
The use of molluscs by humans has been documented by finds until the Middle Paleolithic . Since mollusc shells are well preserved, they have acquired great importance in various aspects of material culture , where they are used as
- Material,
- Coloring agent ,
- Material for jewelry,
- Exchange item and
- Grave goods
found many uses.
In addition, by examining the distribution area of individual mollusc species in relation to the places where the shells were found, trade and cultural connections can be concluded, e.g. B. in the case of objects found in which the shells of the Lazarus rattle ( Spondylus gaederopus ) were processed. From the occurrence of mollusc remains, conclusions can be drawn about the paleoclimate and, in connection with settlement and storage remains, the season of use.
See also
literature
- Daniella E. Bar-Yosef Mayer (ed.): Archaeomalacology: Molluscs in former environments of human behavior. Proceedings of the 9th Conference of the International Council of Archeozoology, Durham, August 2002. Oxbow, Oxford 2005, ISBN 1-84217-120-8
- Canan Çakirlar (ed.): Archaeomalacology revisited: non-dietary use of molluscs in archaeological settings. Oxbow, Oxford 2011, ISBN 978-1-8421-7436-4