The West Tofts handaxe: A remarkably average, structurally flawed, utilitarian biface

Abstract

The West Tofts handaxe is a small British Acheulean biface well known for its cortical preservation of a fossilised bivalve shell. The shell's retention, its prominent central placement, and perceptions of the tool's broader aesthetic-value have resulted in it being described as an example of early hominin aesthetic intent. When combined with its mid-to-late Pleistocene age, the handaxe plausibly has implications for our understanding of hominin cognitive evolution and the origins of Palaeolithic art. Crucial to the assignment of aesthetic intent are a series of assumptions concerning the exceptionality of the tool's design, production and use. Here, we test those assumptions. The West Tofts handaxe is revealed to be technologically and morphologically unremarkable for the British late Acheulean, was produced on a tabular flint nodule that did not require invasive (central) flake removals, and displays remarkably average flaking investment. High-resolution micro-CT scans of its internal structure reveal numerous fractures and air pockets, and at least one – potentially two – additional fossilised shells. These inclusions and flaws feasibly impacted the tool's production, potentially resulting in the shell's retention. Limited microwear traces were identified on its distal flaked edges, potentially hinting at the tool's expedient use. These and other data underline the importance of restraint when attributing aesthetic intent or ‘over-investment’ to the West Tofts handaxe. Today we may consider it a remarkable artefact worthy of elevation, but to the Acheulean individual who produced it, the West Tofts handaxe was likely an average utilitarian tool produced on a flawed but conveniently thin flint nodule.