Functional analysis of sandstone ground stone\xa0tools: arguments for a qualitative and quantitative synergetic approach

Andrea Zupancich,Emanuela Cristiani

doi:10.1038/s41598-020-72276-0

Abstract

In the last few years, the application of quantitative methods in the field of use wear analysis has grown considerably, involving the use of different techniques. A development in surface measurements approaches has become necessary as standard assessments based upon qualitative functional analysis are often affected by a degree of subjectivity and a limited reproducibility. To advance the current methodological debate on functional analysis of ground stone technology, we present a combined methodological approach, including qualitative and quantitative analyses, applied to the study of experimental sandstone ground stone tools. We test surface quantification at a macro and micro-scale, paired with the observation and description of residue and use wear connected to the processing of plant, animal and mineral matters. Our results provide an exhaustive quantitative dataset concerning surface modifications associated with different uses and suggest an analytical workflow for the functional analysis of both experimental and archaeological ground stone assemblages. We also highlight the limitation and pitfalls of an exclusive adoption of quantitative methods in the study of ancient tool use demonstrating how a synergetic approach can enhance the quality, reproducibility and comparability of functional data.

Highlights

In the last few years, the application of quantitative methods in the field of use wear analysis has grown considerably, involving the use of different techniques
The lack of an exhaustive quantitative dataset concerning surface modifications associated with different uses; (c) to what degree residues hinder the development and appearance of use wear through optical microscopy; (d) the need to consider GSTs in their entire d imensionality[11]; and (e) the role of the researcher subjectivity in the functional interpretation
Our selection was driven by specific methodological needs, such as (1) establishing a clear analytical workflow for the functional analysis of GSTs; (2) implementing qualitative and quantitative dataset of the surface modifications associated with different GSTs’ utilizations; and, (3) building up a specific reference collection for interpreting ancient functional biographies of GSTs recovered at various Mesolithic sites of the Danube Gorges

Summary

Introduction

In the last few years, the application of quantitative methods in the field of use wear analysis has grown considerably, involving the use of different techniques. A low degree of accuracy in blind tests has been pointed (see2,3) together with the need to implement quantitative approaches to obtain more accurate use wear datasets and guarantee the comparability and reproducibility of functional results[3,4] In this regard, several works have discussed the application of quantitative methods focused on surface measurements to knapped and ground stone tools ( GSTs), at both macro and microscale[5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14]. We expect our results to contribute to the development of the field of functional study of GST use, in particular, identifying the pros and cons of the application of quantitative analysis

Methods

Results

Conclusion