3D analysis of cut marks using a new geometric morphometric methodological approach

The arrival of new methodological approaches to study microscopic qualities in cut mark morphology has been a major improvement in our understanding of butchering activities. Micro-morphological differences can be detected in multiple different taphonomic alterations on bone cortical surfaces that c...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Courtenay, Lloyd Austin, Yravedra Sainz de los Terreros, José, Maté-González, Miguel Ángel, Aramendi Picado, Julia, González Aguilera, Diego
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2017
País:España
Institución:Universidad de Salamanca (USAL)
Repositorio:GREDOS. Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Salamanca
OAI Identifier:oai:gredos.usal.es:10366/154626
Acceso en línea:http://hdl.handle.net/10366/154626
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Taphonomy
Experimental archaeology
Geometric morphometrics
Cut marks
Rawmaterials
Descripción
Sumario:The arrival of new methodological approaches to study microscopic qualities in cut mark morphology has been a major improvement in our understanding of butchering activities. Micro-morphological differences can be detected in multiple different taphonomic alterations on bone cortical surfaces that can later be used to compare different trace mark types. Through this, we can generate studies that are able to diagnose the specific taphonomic agents and activities that produce said traces that can be found on osteological surfaces. This paper presents experimental data that have been studied using micro-photogrammetry and geometric morphometrics, successfully distinguishing morphological differences in cut marks produced by different lithic tool types as well as different raw materials. The statistical results and methodologies presented here can later be applied to archaeological sites; aiding in our understanding of raw material exploitation, tool production as well as the different butchering activities that are present in faunal assemblages.