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Apel, J. & Knutsson, K., 2006. Skilled Production and Social Reproduction. SAU Stone Studies 2. Uppsala.
Nyree Finlay
Manifesting microliths: insights
and strategies from experimental
replication
Abstract
Experimental replication has been an underdeveloped tool for exploring
routines of microlith production. This paper presents the results of two rep
lication experiences and explores the constraints of traditional approaches,
in replication and in relation to later mesolithic archaeological assemblages
from sites excavated as part of the Southern Hebrides Mesolithic Project,
western Scotland. Concealment and visibility emerge as key metaphors for
engaging with the various routines of microlith production and the perfor
mativity of manufacture is explored as a means to consider both group and
individual actions and identities.
Introduction
The aim of this paper is to consider insights derived from experimental rep
lication and the dialogue that exists between modern engagements with mi
crolith manufacture and the information that can be teased from detailed
analysis of archaeological assemblages. Replication as a contemporary prac
Danish daggers (as evidenced by Apel 2001; Apel and Nunn this volume)
rather than the apparently more simplistic objects that are often the main
stay of the archaeological record. This has been clearly detrimental to our
appreciation of the range of techniques and other subtle differences that can
traditional representation and present observations derived from the results
of two short programmes of lithic replication. In terms of structure, the
paper is divided into four sections where my point of departure moves from
conventional ways of representing these artefacts to the presentation of ex
as an exercise in revealing and concealing self and group identities.
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