June 29-30th 2024

Methods of production and analysis of lithic artefacts

From the first appearance of hominin toolmaking more than three million years ago to the beginnings of metal working, stone tools have been a constant companion of humankind. Lithic artefacts are highly resistant to weathering processes and thus provide the most extended record of behavioral aspects of early humans. The identification of utilized raw materials, knapping methods, and techniques, contains important information on prehistoric economy, technological innovations, shared cultural practices, and the extent of spatiotemporal technocomplexes.

This annual course aims to introduce students to the different production methods and techniques of stone knapping as well as analyzing methods of lithic assemblages by providing a theoretical framework and practical activities. Students will be given an overview of knapping technologies throughout the Paleaolithic and will be able to make replicas of simple stone tools themselves through practical instruction from experienced flint knappers.

The course is particularly recommended for students working on topics related to lithic technology and Stone Age archaeology to deepen their understanding of the material they are studying. The course is taught in English and takes place in Schelklingen surrounded by the world heritage sites of the Swabian Jura.

Please send your application to one of the following mail addresses by April 1st.

Contact

Elena Moos

elena.moosspam prevention@student.uni-tuebingen.de

Rudolf Walter

rudolf.walterspam prevention@uni-tuebingen.de