3D 360° surface morphometric analysis of pounding stone tools used by Hadza foragers of Tanzania: A new methodological approach for studying percussive stone artefacts

• Published in: Journal of archaeological science, reports reports, 2018-08, Vol.20, p.611-621
• Main Authors: Benito-Calvo, Alfonso, Crittenden, Alyssa N., Livengood, Sarah V., Sánchez-Romero, Laura, Martínez-Fernández, Adrián, de la Torre, Ignacio, Pante, Michael
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 3D surface morphometry; Baobab processing; Multivariate exploratory statistics; Pounding stone tools; Use wear
• ISSN: 2352-409X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2018.06.003

Surface morphometry comprises a relevant set of techniques that provide objective tools to identify, map, and understand use wear patterns in stone tools. Thus far, these techniques have been applied mainly to 2D or 2.5D data, but their application to 3D 360° data is promising and still underdeveloped. Here, we apply new 3D techniques to calculate morphometric variables and to analyse surficial features and changes in pounding stone tools used for baobab processing among Hadza foragers of Tanzania. Baobab pounding stones were collected after use by Hadza foragers for processing the plant food and then 3D point clouds were acquired from laser scanners and SfM photogrammetry. Morphometry was conducted directly on 3D point clouds to avoid time-consuming and surface modifications related to more complex 3D data, such as meshing. Several morphometric variables were computed for the complete pieces (360° sphere) providing fast and accurate data to identify the detailed morphometric features of the artefacts. Additionally, stone surface changes due to baobab processing were measured by comparing the stone surface before and after use, thus enabling calculation of spatial abrasion patterns. Data were interpreted using multivariate exploratory statistical analysis. Differences in the effect of processing on surface morphology are likely explained by variations in raw source material and use. Results suggest that the traces produced by baobab processing on stone tools should be detectable in the archaeological record. [Display omitted] •A new method is used to study traces in lithic using 3D 360° surface morphometry.•It was tested in pounding tools used for baobab processing by Hadza foragers.•Results allow to measure stone tool abrasion and to describe surficial features.•Multivariant statistic of 3D variables identifies the raw material and the use areas.