Preparing for the Hunt in the Late Paleolithic Camp at Rekem, Belgium

Extensive experiments and use-wear studies have recently generated a large set of diagnostic attributes allowing recognition of impact damage on lithic projectiles. Until now, Late Paleolithic laterally modified points and bladelets of NW Europe have received little attention in this respect. The arch-backed-piece (ABP) assemblage from Rekem, Belgium, provides an excellent data-set to study techno-functional qualities and intra-site spatial distributions of these artifacts. Attention is paid to the morphology and general state of preservation of the backed pieces and their waste products, which are then identified mainly as functional projectile points, based on both macro-fractures and microstriations, observed using a metallographic microscope with various magnifications (50 x-500 x). More detailed uses are specified and activity areas related to weapon manufacture and repair are distinguished within a single camp. The results show that consistent interpretations can be achieved on sites with poor conditions of preservation when various analytical methods are fully integrated.

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