@inbook{e2a5db90d8c54cf490cebc7a6b7d33b1,
title = "Morpho-metric variability of Early Gravettian tanged “Font-Robert” points, and functional implications",
abstract = "Early Gravettian Font-Robert points – tanged tools created on blades – were initially defined as weapon armatures, and this is frequently referred to as their function. However, Font-Robert points have been described as a morphologically variable type, with suggestions that this morphological variability represents a functional variability. Here we discuss this issue with reference to a sample of Early Gravettian tanged artifacts (including Font-Robert points) from Maisi{\`e}res-Canal in Belgium, as well as two similar artifacts from Britain. Although many of the artifacts studied have a morphology and size commensurate with their function as lithic armatures, the majority are apparently unlikely to have functioned within a “complex” projectile technology, which contrasts with measurement data published on Font-Robert points from France. Instead, Font-Robert points from Maisi{\`e}res-Canal and Britain display a notable level of morpho-metric variability. By extension, this suggests a functional variability, a possibility that needs confirmation with use-wear analysis. These Font-Robert points may have served as technologically simpler throwing or thrusting spears, as knives, or as versatile, multi-function tools. Overall, we stress that morpho-metric data complements use-wear studies, when assessing potential projectile function, and can help make an assessment of which artifacts to target for such research techniques.",
keywords = "Impact fractures, Tip cross-sectional area (TCSA), Tool typologies, Upper paleolithic, Weapon armatures",
author = "Annemieke Milks and Rob Dinnis and Matthew Pope",
note = "We are pleased to thank Ivan Jadin at the IRSNB, as well as the Manchester, Creswell Crags and Ipswich Museums, who granted access to their collections, to Damien Pesesse and Damien Flas for allowing us to reference their “in press” work, and to Tom Higham, Sylvia Bello, Joanna Richards, Paul Pettitt, Marcel Otte and the IRSNB (on behalf of Jean De Heinzelin) for permission to reproduce or modify images. We thank Sander-Martijn Milks and Melanie Terrade for drawing, scanning and preparing images and Mark Wigglesworth for proof reading. Finally, three anonymous reviewers gave comments on drafts of this paper that helped improve our work.",
year = "2016",
month = may,
day = "29",
doi = "10.1007/978-94-017-7602-8_9",
language = "English",
isbn = "978-94-017-7601-1",
series = "Vertebrate Paleobiology and Paleoanthropology",
publisher = "Springer ",
number = "9789401776011",
pages = "135--146",
booktitle = "Multidisciplinary Approaches to the Study of Stone Age Weaponry",
}