JOURNAL ARTICLE

Puzzling prehistoric artifacts served a practical purpose: ropemaking.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2024. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Curry, Andrew 3 of 3

Abstract

Archaeologists have discovered that prehistoric artifacts previously thought to be ritual objects were actually used for ropemaking. The artifacts, made from mammoth ivory or antler, date back over 35,000 years to the last ice age. The researchers found that the artifacts had multiple holes with spiraling grooves, which they believe were used to feed plant fibers through and create rope. This discovery sheds light on the practical skills and innovative capacities of ancient humans. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2024/01, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Anthropology
  • Publication Date:2024
  • Accession Number:175198768
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