Producing for the Dead, Using while Alive: Lithic Tools Production and Consumption in the Late Neolithic of North-Eastern Iberia

Abstract

Between 3500 and 1500 calBC profound socio-economic transformations took place in northeast Iberia, and these are reflected in the archaeological record. The lithic tool-kit used by human communities at that time is very diverse, if we take into account the dichotomy between the implements found in funerary contexts and those at domestic sites. Thus, whereas at burials we encounter grave-goods consisting of arrowheadsand long blades made with high quality flint, manufactured by specialist artisans, at settlements the expedient tools are usually made from rock of local origin and used for a wide range of functions.