Neolithic Plant, Bone and Pigment Processing at Jebel Oraf: Use-Wear Analysis of Grinding Tools

What is it about?

Archaeological sites with surface hearths are common in the arid zones of the Arabian interior. A study on grinding stones found at Jebel Oraf in the Jubbah basin of the Nefud Desert revealed that these tools were used during the Neolithic for plant processing, bone processing, and pigment production. The analysis also highlights the importance of pigment processing at Neolithic sites and provides a link to painted rock art. The frequent use of pigment in the archaeological record suggests that Neolithic painted art may have been more common than the surviving images suggest. The grinding stones were often broken up after initial use and re-used for alternative purposes before being placed on hearths or discarded. The study demonstrates that grinding tools were used for a range of tasks, including plant, pigment, and bone processing, and provides insights into the subsistence activities of Neolithic communities in the region.

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Why is it important?

The research provides valuable insights into the Neolithic subsistence activities, economy, and art in northern Arabia. Key Takeaways: 1. Grinding tools were used for a variety of purposes, including plant processing, bone processing, and pigment production. 2. The tools were often reused and repurposed before being placed on hearths or discarded. 3. The frequent use of pigment in the archaeological record suggests that painted rock art may have been more common than the surviving images suggest.