Shell middens and shells
In: Oxford Handbooks. Oxford University Press: New York. , more
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| Author keywords |
Mesolithic, shell, food, ornament, tool, shell midden, cemetery, residence, diet, sampling |
| Authors | | Top |
- Dupont, C.
- Gutiérrez-Zugasti, I.
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| Abstract |
This chapter deals with the variability of anthropogenic shell deposits usually called shell middens and the different uses of molluscs during the Mesolithic in Europe. We present the geographical distribution and environmental setting of these emblematic archaeological sites, as well as their settlement patterns and their roles in symbolic and subsistence systems. The uses by Mesolithic societies of the major component found in the shell middens—i.e. the shells—are addressed. We focus on issues such as the sampling methods, the use of shells as food, ornaments, and tools, and the daily activities related to the exploitation of marine resources, from their collection to their discard. We present the latest methods used in the study of marine molluscs in relation to the main research themes applied to shell middens. |
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