Multi-Aspect Analysis of Neolithic Bone Tools From Kopydłowo, Site 6, Poland

The paper presents the results of osteological, typological, and microwear analyses of Neolithic bone tools recovered from Kopydłowo, site 6 (Greater Poland Province, Poland). The site is known for a pit with a number of bovine horn cores, a presumable refuse from Neolithic horn working. A multi-aspect analysis revealed the kinds of raw materials used for the production of bone tools and provided insights into how the specimens were worked and used. Twenty-nine out of 36 tools were identified to taxon. All artefacts were made from mammal bones, mostly cattle, sheep/goat, red deer, and pig. Awls and perforators, used to work with a soft organic material, were the most common tool types at the site. Some scrapers and polishers for hide working, as well as spatulae, a T-shaped axe, a chisel, a pendant, and pieces of raw material were also found. The presence of two tools made from wild mammals’ bones may possibly contribute to the discussion on contacts between farmers and hunter-gatherers in the Neolithic

Archaeology · Geography · Ancient and Medieval Archaeology Studies · Forensic Anthropology and Bioarchaeology Studies · Historical and Archaeological Studies