The Fosna‐N⊘stvet problem. A consideration of archaeological units and Chronozones in the South Norwegian Mesolithic period

Abstract

The Tapes transgression has distorted the archaeological record, especially in the Western Norwegian Mesolithic Period. The concept of two distinct archaeological units, the ‘Fosna culture’ and the ‘N⊘stvet culture’, is mainly based on a ‘false contrast’ in the archaeological material, created by the transgression. A three‐phase model, similar to the provisional chronological framework for South‐eastern Norway, is indicated by the analysis of traditional typological elements in 16 lithic assemblages, ca. 9500–6000 years B.P. The Fosna Tradition, older than ca. 9000 years B.P., is essentially unchanged from earlier descriptions. The Early Microblade Tradition, ca. 9000–7000 years B.P., is dominated by N⊘stvet elements, yet some Fosna elements are present. Blade cores and blades appear to be chronologically significant. The Late Microblade Tradition, ca. 7000–5200 years B.P., does not include Fosna elements. Abundant bipolar cores is an important characteristic. An independent analysis of blades and blade technology shows a gradual, continuous change throughout the entire Mesolithic Period. Consequently, the interpretative significance of precise chronological boundaries between archaeological units is questioned. Regional differences and diffuse transitions make traditions’, phases, etc. unsuitable as units in a basic chronological framework. The use of Blytt‐Sernander chronozones is therefore recommended.