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Thermal Alteration in Mesolithic Assemblages

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 May 2014

T. Douglas Price ,
Sylvia Chappell  and
David J. Ives
T. Douglas Price
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, University of Wisconsin — Madison
Sylvia Chappell
Affiliation:
Museum of Anthropology, University of Michigan
David J. Ives
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, University of Missouri
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Abstract

Experimental, analytical, and archaeological evidence is presented to describe the characteristics of thermal alteration in mesolithic assemblages from the northern Netherlands. Experiments, both in the field and in the laboratory, have established the sequence of changes that occur when flint is subjected to heat. Analytical techniques involving the scanning electron microscope and thermoluminescence analysis are used in an attempt to recognize thermal pretreatment and to define the stages in manufacturing in which it was used. The proportions and spatial distributions of thermally-altered artefacts are employed to compare archaeological assemblages and to locate heat sources on occupation floors. In spite of high incidence of heat alteration in the assemblages, there is no conclusive evidence for intentional thermal pretreatment.

Type
Research Article
Information
Proceedings of the Prehistoric Society , Volume 48 , Issue 1 , 1982 , pp. 467 - 485
Copyright
Copyright © The Prehistoric Society 1982

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