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Morpho-metric variability of Early Gravettian tanged “Font-Robert” points, and functional implications

Milks, A; Dinnis, R; Pope, M; (2016) Morpho-metric variability of Early Gravettian tanged “Font-Robert” points, and functional implications. In: Multidisciplinary Approaches to the Study of Stone Age Weaponry. (pp. 135-146). Springer

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Abstract

Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht. Early Gravettian Font-Robert points – tanged tools created on blades – were initially defined as weapon armatures, and this is frequently referred to as their function. However, Font-Robert points have been described as a morphologically variable type, with suggestions that this morphological variability represents a functional variability. Here we discuss this issue with reference to a sample of Early Gravettian tanged artifacts (including Font-Robert points) from Maisières-Canal in Belgium, as well as two similar artifacts from Britain. Although many of the artifacts studied have a morphology and size commensurate with their function as lithic armatures, the majority are apparently unlikely to have functioned within a “complex” projectile technology, which contrasts with measurement data published on Font-Robert points from France. Instead, Font-Robert points from Maisières-Canal and Britain display a notable level of morpho-metric variability. By extension, this suggests a functional variability, a possibility that needs confirmation with use-wear analysis. These Font-Robert points may have served as technologically simpler throwing or thrusting spears, as knives, or as versatile, multi-function tools. Overall, we stress that morpho-metric data complements use-wear studies, when assessing potential projectile function, and can help make an assessment of which artifacts to target for such research techniques.

Type: Book chapter
Title: Morpho-metric variability of Early Gravettian tanged “Font-Robert” points, and functional implications
ISBN: 9401776016
ISBN-13: 9789401776011
Publisher version: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-0...
Language: English
Additional information: This version is the author accepted manuscript. For information on re-use, please refer to the publisher’s terms and conditions.
UCL classification: UCL
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL SLASH
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL SLASH > Faculty of S&HS
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL SLASH > Faculty of S&HS > Institute of Archaeology
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL SLASH > Faculty of S&HS > Institute of Archaeology > Institute of Archaeology ASE
URI: https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/1520954
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