Finlay, N. (2009) Futile fragments?- some thoughts on microlith breakage patterns. In: Finlay, N., McCartan, S., Milner, N. and Wiickham-Jones, C. (eds.) From Bann Flakes to Bushmills: Papers in Honour of Professor Peter Woodman. Series: Prehistoric Society Research Paper (1). Oxbow Books: Oxford, pp. 22-30. ISBN 9781842173558
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Abstract
Microlith fragments are often overlookedin conventional lithic analysis due to the perceived limits of their typological utility. This paper presents the resilts of a detailed examination of microlith fragments from Lough Boora, Co. Offaly, Ireland as well as two Scottish Mesolithic sites: Bolsay Farm, Islay and Staosnaig,Colonsay. A pilot study to develop methodologies for microlith fragments is presented using an attribute-based approach; the objective being the exploration of breakage patterns as a means to determine stages in the microlith biography via the identification of manufacture, use and post-depositional fracture. The results reveal that while we can quantify post-depositional and manufacturing breakage with some confidence, the criteria for macroscopic use-wear needs to be critically re-evaluated.
| Item Type: | Book Sections (Other) |
|---|---|
| Status: | Published |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | Finlay, Dr Nyree |
| Authors: | Finlay, N. |
| College/School: | College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Archaeology |
| Publisher: | Oxbow Books |
| ISBN: | 9781842173558 |
| Copyright Holders: | The Prehistoric Society, Oxbow Books and individual author |
| Related URLs: |
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