EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE OF SPEAR-THROWER USAGE IN THE LATE UPPER PALAEOLITHIC (UPPER MAGDALENIAN) FROM THE ISTURITZ CAVE SITE, PYRÉNÉES-ATLANTIQUES, FRANCE

Abstract

The authors organized a projectile experiment including the use of bow and spear-thrower in conditions replicating Palaeolithic hunting. Experimental copies of antler points from the Late Upper Palaeolithic showed proximal fractures characteristic of spear-thrower use. Similar fractures are found on archaeological specimens from the Upper Magdalenian occupation of the Isturitz site, thus bringing arguments in favour of the persistence of this weapon at least until ca. 16-14 cal ka BP in Western Europe.