Exploring Obsidian Hafted Scraper Use-Wear Patterns Through Experimental Hide-Working in Southern Patagonia

Summary

This is an abstract from the "SAA 2024: Individual Abstracts" session, at the 89th annual meeting of the Society for American Archaeology.

Ethnographically, three types of hafted scrapers are found in Patagonia: northern Tehuelche, southern Tehuelche, and Selk'nam. However, due to environmental conditions, hafting materials rarely survive in the archaeological record, hindering our understanding of these tools. To address this gap, we conducted experimental research to characterize the use-wear on obsidian scrapers used for hide-working. Our primary goal was to create reference points for hide-working and particularly for hafting traces using obsidian scrapers. We modeled our experiments on ethnographic tools and conducted scraping trials on fresh and dry sea lion and penguin skins, incorporating additives as part of hide-curing, replicating local resources used by marine hunter-gatherer societies in the Strait of Magellan. We also examined two ethnographic Selk’nam-type glass scrapers. Our traceological analysis of experimental obsidian scrapers revealed distinct patterns in the distribution of use-wear depending on the scraper type, and notable differences between fresh and dry skin experimentation. Even in the case of fresh skin, significant abrasion was observed. These findings provide valuable insights into the functioning of Patagonian scrapers, shedding light on their use in hide-working activities. By comparing our experimental results with use-wear on ethnographic instruments, we contribute to a deeper understanding of Patagonian tool technology.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• SAA 2024: Individual Abstracts   •
• Society for American Archaeology 89th Annual Meeting, New Orleans, LA (2024)

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Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 39353.0