Experimental Replication of Aurignacian Split- Based Points in Antler: Manufacture Replicating the Accepted Chaîne Opératoire for Reindeer and Red Deer Antler Split-Based Points

Abstract

Following the arrival of Homo sapiens in Europe (40,000-35,000 BP) hunting saw significant technical innovations, most notably in the advent of split- based points: projectile points of antler with a pointed tip, and a split base utilised for hafting. Split-based points remain important, having been a defining component of the Aurignacian technocomplex since the early 20th century. Consequently, they are a much studied osseous projectile. However, debate surrounding the creation of the basal split has resulted in a fractured literate, that has achieved comparatively little progress in our understanding. In this, the wider chaîne opératoire remains overall neglected, and has, as yet, never been performed and recorded in its entirety. Geographical bias is also evident, with archaeological comparison favouring western Europe, particularly France. This is particularly problematic due to geographical variation in material (differing species of antler). By contrast, due to the trends in osseous research, hafting methods appear to be the only aspect for which we have gained any measure of clarity. As such, the present experiment aims to utilise both reindeer and red deer antler to perform and record the entire chaîne opératoire for the first time. In doing so, the validity of the previously accepted methods for each stage of the chaîne opératoire will be considered. The impact of the material and methods will also be considered. As the experiment representing the first full replication, the stages will also be considered together determining, where evident, the impact of the preceding stages on the latter. Overall, it is hoped that greater clarity and a better understanding of the split-based point chaîne opératoire can be gained.