麻豆淫院

A pioneering study in experimental archaeology has revealed the techniques used by prehistoric communities in north-eastern Europe to extract animal teeth for crafting personal ornaments鈥攐ffering fresh insights into the daily lives and cultural practices of Stone Age hunter鈥揼atherers.

The research centers on the Zvejnieki cemetery site in Latvia (7500鈥�2500 cal. BC), where more than 2,000 animal teeth have been excavated from graves. While previous studies focused on the symbolic and decorative roles of these ornaments, this new investigation highlights a critical but previously overlooked step: how the teeth were actually removed from animal skulls.

Using experimental archaeology, the research team tested seven different extraction methods, including cutting, percussion, air drying, soaking, direct heat, and different cooking techniques. The results showed that wet cooking and pit steaming were the most effective, allowing for high extraction rates without damaging the teeth. These methods also rendered the meat edible and the bones suitable for tool-making.

The study, "First stage in technological production of Stone Age animal teeth pendants: evidence from Zvejnieki (Latvia) and wider social implications," is in Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences.

"Our experiments show that tooth extraction was a deliberate, time-sensitive process embedded in daily life, especially cooking practices," said Dr. Aija Mac膩ne, lead researcher. "This challenges the assumption that teeth used for ornaments were simply scavenged or easily available."

The findings suggest that tooth extraction was not merely a functional task but an integral part of broader cultural practices, intertwining food preparation, personal adornment manufacture and mortuary rituals. The study calls for a reevaluation of the cha卯ne op茅ratoire鈥攖he sequence of actions involved in artifact production鈥攑articularly in relation to ornament-making and human鈥揳nimal relationships.

The researchers hope their work will inspire further studies into the early stages of ornament production, including comparisons with butchery practices and the extraction of human and carnivore teeth.

"By better understanding the extraction process, we gain deeper insight into the life histories of tooth pendants鈥攆rom animal capture and processing, to ornament crafting, use, and final deposition," added Dr. Mac膩ne.

This study not only enriches our understanding of prehistoric craft but also sheds light on the complex interplay between daily survival, symbolic expression, and identity in ancient societies.