Invisible handaxes and visible Acheulian biface technology at Gesher Benot Ya’aqov, Israel

Naama Goren-Inbar, Gonen Sharon

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

The excavations of two archaeological horizons in the southernmost part of Gesher Benot Ya’aqov (Area C) yielded unique lithic assemblages characterized by two traits that differentiate them from the rest of the Acheulian cultural sequence at the site: the abundance of flint artifacts and the paucity of bifacial tools. We present the results of a detailed techno-typological analysis of these assemblages supported by an experimental one, which allow for their identification as Acheulian entities despite the low frequencies of bifacial tools. The study describes some typical products of handaxe manufacture, postulates their possible usage, and examines the phenomenon of handaxe paucity and its significance. These data illustrate the exceptional variability of the Acheulian assemblages within the Gesher Benot Ya’aqov cultural sequence. The results also illustrate extensive socio-economic mobility: flint handaxes were manufactured in situ, introduced as finished tools, and exported from the site. The implications of the study may serve as a model for better understanding of Acheulian cultural patterning in the Levant and beyond.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAxe Age
Subtitle of host publicationAcheulian Tool-making from Quarry to Discard
PublisherTaylor and Francis
Pages111-135
Number of pages25
ISBN (Electronic)9781040284322
ISBN (Print)1845531388, 9781845531386
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2006 Naama Goren-Inbar, Gonen Sharon and contributors. All rights reserved.

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