Worked Bone, Antler, Ivory, and Keratinous Materials

This Element studies archaeological objects made from animal materials, covering identification, quantification, and recording methods.

Adam DiBattista (Author)

9781009532686, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 16 January 2025

102 pages
23.5 x 15.9 x 1.2 cm, 0.3 kg

This Element addresses the study and documentation of objects made from the durable materials of animal bodies, including bone, antler, ivory, and keratinous tissues. This category of artifacts is common across cultures and regions, yet often escapes close study. The Element aims to be a guide to understanding and documenting worked animal objects for those without a background in zooarchaeology or experience with such artifacts. This Element provides a means of identifying and distinguishing animal materials by emphasizing the value of caution and making full documentation of all observations. Using illustrations and descriptions to help researchers understand the structure of these materials, the volume introduces the terminology and diagnostic factors that differentiate animal materials. It also outlines the techniques craftspeople used to modify animal materials in the past. Finally, this Element presents recording strategies for individuals wishing to study assemblages from archaeological excavations.

1. Introduction
2. Bone and antler
3. Ivory and animal teeth
4. Keratinous materials
5. Modifications of animal materials
6. Studying animal materials
7. Conclusion
8. Further reading and glossary
References.

Subject Areas: Archaeology [HD]