Wear analysis
Since Sergeĭ Aristarkhovich Semenov created the theoretical prerequisites in “Prehistoric Technology” in 1957 and Lawrence H. Keeley (1948–2017) introduced a method for their investigation, functional investigations have been carried out on prehistoric flint tools with the help of traces of use analysis .
The interest in the inspection of traces of use on flint tools has grown steadily. Since the method includes the so-called micropolishing, which is only visible at high magnifications, the so-called “high power approach” (HPA microscopy at high magnifications) is contrasted with the “low power approach” (low magnification) carried out by George Odell and others .
The analysis of traces of use ranges from observation with the naked eye to examination using a microscope and the occasional use of a scanning electron microscope . The level of observation depends on the characteristics. The changes to the edges and surfaces of flint appliances resulting from use affect three characteristics:
- 1. Edge splintering and rounding,
- 2. Scratches
- 3. Polishes.
Edge chipping and rounding
Chipped and rounded edges are examined using a stereo microscope at a magnification of less than 100 ×. The shape and distribution pattern of the splinters have diagnostic value with regard to the use and hardness of the processed material. However, experiments have shown that it is difficult to separate traces of damage caused by deliberate use from damage caused by retouching, sharpening and after embedding in the sediment . In addition, not all forms of use lead to splintering or rounding of edges.
Scratches
Scratches are grooves or scratches of varying thickness. Some can be seen with the naked eye, others are only visible at high magnification. It is believed that scratches are caused by the abrasive action of chipped particles and / or dirt. They can reflect a wide range of processes including natural phenomena. They are only to be regarded as the result of conscious work if they are accompanied by further signs of use. However, they are then an indication of the direction of movement of the tool edge during use.
Micro-polishes
Micropolishes are surface changes when they come into contact with other materials. Strong polish formation such as the well-known "sickle shine" was recognized 100 years ago. Lawrence Keeley was the first to observe that micropolishes, at 100-400x magnification, often show variations in their morphology and texture that are typical of certain machined materials, e.g. B. Wood, plants, meat, bones / antlers, fur and stone. His method was based on experimentally manufactured and used flint tool edges. The analyzes on a series of tools then showed that the investigations produce results even on very old archaeological material.
literature
- Helle Juel Jensen: usage traces In: Archäologische Informations 11/2, 1988, S. 120-121 doi: 10.11588 / ai.1988.2.26858
- Lawrence H. Keeley: Neolithic novelties: the view from ethnography and microwear analysis, Traces d'utilisation sur les outils en pierres néolithiques du Proche Orient , Lyon, Travaux de la Maison de l'Orient, pp. 251-256, 1983.
- Annelou L. van Gijn, Flint in focus: lithic biographies in the Neolithic and Bronze Age. Leiden, Sidestone Press 2010, ISBN 9789088900334
Individual evidence
- ^ SA Semenov, Prehistoric technology, an experimental study of the oldest tools and artefacts from traces of manufacture and wear (translated and with a preface by MW Thompson) Cory, London 1964, see also Laura Longo, Natalia Skakun, Patricia C. Anderson, Hugues Plisson, The Roots of Use-Wear Analysis: Selected Papers of SA Semenov. Memorie del Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Verona (2nd series), Sezione Scienze dell'Uomo No. 7