Acta Anthropologica Sinica ›› 2019, Vol. 38 ›› Issue (03): 460-472.doi: 10.16359/j.cnki.cn11-1963/q.2018.0042

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A simulated experiment of use efficiency of the limestone lithics: As an example of the Yumidong site in Wushan, Chongqing

HE Cunding1(), ZHAO Zhuo2, YU Jinsheng2, WU Chan2, HU Xin2, WU Yan2   

  1. 1. School of Culture Heritage, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069
    2. Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum, Chongqing 400015
  • Received:2018-04-16 Revised:2018-09-20 Online:2019-08-15 Published:2020-09-10

Abstract:

:In this paper, the Yumidong site in Wushan, Chongqing is studied. With the help of simulated experiments on the duplication and the effectiveness of the use of limestone in the Yumidong site, we obtained results which indicate that some limestone shows good applicability in knapping and use in routine cutting, digging and other behavioral activities, which shows good functional utility and efficiency. Comparing the experimental specimens and the lithics found in the site, we argue that “utilized tools” created by the direct use of preferred natural blanks are present. This type of wear is mainly concentrated on heavy tools, similar to choppers and picks, but the retouched tools in the assemblage are more effective and durable than such utilized pieces. Pointed tools are easy to damaged when they are applied to hard objects due to structural instability and uneven stress exerted on the piece. This situation is consistent with the higher damage rate of excavated pointed tools. Re-shaping the proximal part of the tool for holding is very necessary during use. It provides a reasonable explanation for the universal existence of repaired proximal ends in the lithics founded in the site.

Key words: Three Gorges region, Yumidong site, Limestone tools, Using experiment

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