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DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Anthropology

Paleolithic Age (Part- 05)

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Paleolithic Age (Part- 05)

Tool Technology + Technique
1. Levallois Technique
⮚ The term “Levallois technique” refers to a strategy of stone tool production, specifically a means of taking
a block of stone (core) and producing sharp-edged flake tools through the percussive application of a
stone hammer.

❖ Tool material
⮚ Most Places — Quartzite materials. (Quartzite is a naturally occurring, metamorphic rock formed from
Sandstone.)
⮚ Also — agate, jasper, flint etc..
❖ Regional Distribution (In India)
1. Sohan Cultural Complex (Sohan Valley)
⮚ The Middle Paleolithic period, also known as the Middle Stone Age, represents a crucial phase in human
prehistory, characterized by significant advancements in tool technology, social behaviour, and cultural
developments. It follows the Lower Paleolithic era and precedes the Upper Paleolithic period.
⮚ Majorly associated with Neanderthal.
⮚ Robert B. Foote (Father of Indian prehistory) discovered the palaeolithic stone tool for the 1st time in
India in 1863.
⮚ A further boost was given by the expeditions of DeTerra and Patterson (1935).
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Source - D.K Bhattacharya

❖ Zone TD - Aggradation and boulder-like deposition. (comparable to the Karewas) ( IInd Himalayan
Glaciation)
❖ Zone T1 - Composed of redeposited boulder. (IInd Himalayan interglaciation)
❖ Zone T2 - IIIrd glaciation — fine layer of silt.
❖ Zone T3 - Reposited Material (IIIrd Himalayan Inter-glacial)
❖ Zone T4 - Silt, gravel + Sand deposits (IV Glaciation)
❖ Zone T5 - Early Holocene (Variation)
Tool Technology in the Middle Paleolithic Period —
A. Point Tools —
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❖ Point tools, within the context of prehistoric stone tool industries, refer to a specific type of artefact
characterized by a sharp, pointed tip. These tools were crafted by shaping stones into a pointed form and were
commonly used for various tasks such as hunting, cutting, or woodworking.
❖ Point tools typically had a narrow, tapered end, often created through intentional flaking or shaping of the
stone, resulting in a sharp tip. They could be used for piercing or cutting tasks due to their pointed structure,
making them useful for activities such as hunting, crafting, or even engraving.
❖ Various types of point tools existed throughout different prehistoric periods, including the Middle Paleolithic
period, where they were often included in the toolkit alongside other implements like scrapers, bruins, and
other stone tools. These points served different purposes based on their size, shape, and the needs of the ancient
populations who crafted and utilized them.
B. Borer Tools —

❖ Borer tools, in the context of prehistoric technology, are a type of specialized stone tool used for drilling or
boring holes in various materials. They typically feature a pointed or rounded end for piercing and were often
created by shaping and refining stone into a tool suitable for drilling or perforating tasks.
❖ These tools were designed to create holes in softer materials such as wood, bone, or other softer stones. Borer
tools often had a tapered or pointed end, sometimes shaped with a conical or cylindrical form to enable the
drilling action. They were essential for various activities such as crafting wooden tools, making ornaments, or
working on other materials where a hole or perforation was required.
❖ Borer tools, along with other stone implements like scrapers, points, and choppers, were part of the toolkit used
by prehistoric populations during different periods, contributing to the versatility and functionality of their
tool-making capabilities.
C. Cleaver -
❖ A cleaver is a type of large, heavy, and robust stone tool characterized by a broad, straight edge, resembling a
heavy-duty knife or meat cleaver. These tools were used for heavy-duty cutting, chopping, and butchering
tasks.
❖ Examples of cleavers found in archaeological sites, especially from the Acheulean and Middle Paleolithic
periods, typically exhibit a hefty, squared-off shape with a sharp edge. They were used for processing meat or
breaking bones for marrow extraction.
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1. V-Shaped Tool —

❖ V-shaped tools, also known as bifacial tools, have a pointed or angled tip that forms a V-like shape when
observed from the cross-section. These tools were commonly used for piercing, cutting, and other tasks that
required a pointed edge.
❖ During the Acheulean period, handaxes and certain points exhibited a V-shaped profile, useful for tasks
requiring a sharp tip, such as hunting or woodworking.
2. U-Shaped Tool —
❖ U-shaped tools, while less common in the prehistoric record, are tools with a rounded or U-shaped edge. These
tools might have served specific purposes like scraping or smoothing surfaces.
❖ U-shaped tools were likely utilized for activities where a curved, smoother edge was advantageous, such as
shaping wooden materials, scraping hides, or working on other materials that required a rounded or less sharp
edge.
D. Small Hand Axe —
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❖ Small hand axes were a specific type of tool commonly found in prehistoric archaeological sites. These tools
were smaller in size compared to typical hand axes and were characterized by their handheld nature, often
more compact and versatile in use.
❖ These smaller hand axes were crafted with a bifacial working technique, shaping both sides to create a sharp,
functional edge. They were used for a variety of tasks including cutting, butchering, and possibly
woodworking. Their smaller size made them more manoeuvrable and practical for different activities.
❖ Small hand axes were prevalent during the Lower Paleolithic and Middle Paleolithic periods and were part of
the toolkits used by early human populations. Their versatile nature and adaptability to various tasks made
them a crucial part of ancient tool-making traditions.
E. Side Scrapers

❖ Side scrapers are a specific type of stone tool commonly found in archaeological sites and were prevalent
during the Paleolithic era. These tools are characterized by a sharp edge on one of the longer sides, which was
used for scraping or smoothing tasks.
❖ They were created by preparing and shaping a stone to have a sharp working edge on the side. This edge was
often used for scraping or working on materials like hides, wood, or bone. The scraping action served various
purposes such as preparing materials for clothing, shaping tools, or working on different surfaces.
❖ Side scrapers were versatile tools found across different periods of prehistory, such as the Middle Paleolithic,
and were a significant part of the tool repertoire used by early human populations. They exhibit different sizes
and shapes based on the specific needs and the types of materials being processed or worked upon.
2. Bhimbetka
1. Description —
⮚ Bhimbetka is a site in central India known for its rock shelters.
⮚ The Middle Palaeolithic period at Bhimbetka dates back roughly 100,000 to 30,000 years ago.
2. Tools -
⮚ Stone tools were prevalent, showcasing the technological skills of the inhabitants.
⮚ Tools included handaxes, cleavers, and scrapers, highlighting their use in hunting and daily activities.
[Note — We already explain all the tool types under the last heading and previous Daily Class Note.]
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3. Culture -
⮚ Rock shelter walls feature cave paintings depicting scenes from daily life.
⮚ Subjects in the paintings include hunting, dancing, and communal activities.
⮚ Paintings offer insights into cultural practices, rituals, and social dynamics of the Middle Palaeolithic
community.
⮚ Bhimbetka's Middle Palaeolithic period is characterized by a blend of sophisticated tools and rich artistic
expressions, providing a glimpse into the daily lives and culture of its ancient inhabitants.
3. Luni Cultural Complex ( Rajasthan)
⮚ Discovered by V.N. Mishra
⮚ Excavation at Didwana, Vagan,
The Luni Cultural Complex in the Middle Palaeolithic period can be outlined in points:
1. Description —
⮚ The Luni Cultural Complex is associated with the Luni River in western India.
⮚ It represents a significant archaeological site revealing insights into prehistoric human activity.
2. Tools —
⮚ Stone tools are a prominent feature, reflecting the technological advancements of the time.
⮚ Tool types include blades, bruins, and scrapers, indicating a diverse toolkit for various purposes.
⮚ Use of blade technology demonstrates a more refined and efficient tool production.
3. Culture -
⮚ The culture of the Luni Complex is evident in the artefacts and tools discovered.
⮚ The presence of specific tool types suggests specialization and adaptation to local environments.
⮚ Cultural practices may be inferred from the types of tools and their functions, shedding light on daily
activities, hunting strategies, and survival techniques.
The Luni Cultural Complex in the Middle Palaeolithic period is characterized by a distinct array of stone tools,
showcasing the adaptability and cultural practices of the ancient inhabitants along the Luni River.
4. Nevasian Culture Complex (Maha + Karnataka)
⮚ Nevasa — identified by H.D. Sankalia in 1956.
⮚ The site is near the Pravara River (a tributary of Godavari)
⮚ Flake tools are found here which are made by Levallois Techniques.
5. Southern Cultural Complex (TamilNadu)
⮚ Place— Vada Madurai — Attirampakkam
⮚ Tools — Flake Tools, Points, scrappers.
6. Southern Coastal Culture (Andhra Pradesh + Orissa)
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1. Description -
⮚ The Southern Coastal Culture likely refers to the archaeological remains found along the southern coastal
regions of India, encompassing areas like Andhra Pradesh and Orissa.
⮚ The coastal environment would have played a significant role in shaping the lifestyle and activities of
ancient communities.
2. Tools -
⮚ Stone tools would be a crucial component of the material culture, adapted for activities such as hunting,
fishing, and foraging.
⮚ Tools could include blades, scrapers, and implements tailored for maritime resource exploitation.
3. Culture -
⮚ Cultural aspects could be inferred from artefacts, tools, and potentially artistic expressions.
⮚ Given the coastal location, a focus on marine resources like fish and shellfish might be evident in the
archaeological record.
⮚ Artefacts might include tools related to boat-making or evidence of fishing technologies.
⮚ It's important to note that specific details can vary based on archaeological discoveries, and the term
"Southern Coastal Culture" may not be universally recognized. For the most accurate and up-to-date
information, it's recommended to refer to scholarly publications and archaeological reports pertaining to
the specific regions in question.
7. Kurnool - Chhattisgarh culture
1. Description -
⮚ The term may refer to the archaeological remains found in the regions of Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh and
Chhattisgarh in central India.
⮚ The geographical context could influence the lifestyle and resources available to ancient communities.
2. Tools -
⮚ Stone tools would be a key aspect of the material culture, reflecting the technological capabilities of the
inhabitants.
⮚ Tool types might include handaxes, cleavers, scrapers, and potentially more specialized tools depending
on the specific needs of the culture.
3. Culture —
⮚ Cultural aspects could be inferred from tools, artefacts, and potentially symbolic expressions.
⮚ The adaptation to local environments and available resources, whether they are river valleys, forests, or
other landscapes, would be a significant influence on their culture.
⮚ Evidence of hunting, foraging, or early forms of domestication could be present in the archaeological
record.
⮚ For precise details about the Middle Palaeolithic period in the Kurnool and Chhattisgarh regions, it's
recommended to refer to the latest archaeological studies and reports specific to these areas.
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8. Eastern Culture Complex

⮚ Belan River Valley (By G.R. Sharma)
⮚ Bankura (West Bengal)
1. Description —
⮚ The term "Eastern Culture" could refer to the archaeological remains found in the eastern parts of a
particular region or country, and the specifics would depend on the geographical context.
⮚ The landscape, climate, and available resources in the eastern areas would influence the lifestyle of
ancient communities.
2. Tools —
⮚ Stone tools are a key component of the material culture, showcasing the technological capabilities of the
inhabitants.
⮚ Tool types might include handaxes, cleavers, scrapers, and potentially more specialized tools based on
local needs.
3. Culture —
⮚ Cultural aspects could be inferred from artefacts, tools, and potentially symbolic expressions.
⮚ Adaptation to local environments and available resources would be a significant factor in shaping the
culture.
⮚ Evidence of hunting, foraging, or early forms of domestication could be present in the archaeological
record.
(Note : The culture of 'Neanderthal Man', who used flake tools - is called -Mousterian Culture/ Tradition.)
World distribution
1. Europe
⮚ Mousterian Tradition was found in Western Europe with the Levallois technique.
⮚ There are a lot of variations existing in Europe.
⮚ Vary often — Points + side scrappers are found.
Sites are —
1. Le Moustier (France)
2. Neanderthal (Germany)
3. Baile Herculane (Romania)
4. Moldova I & V (Moldova)
Mousterian Culture of France
It was divided into 4 parts —
1. Typical Mousterian
⮚ Levallois technology was used to varying degrees.
⮚ The percentage of scrapers varies from 25 to 55 % and points are well developed.
2. Quina Ferrassic or Charentian Mousterian
⮚ Here Scraper — 50 to 80% (of various types)
⮚ Very few handaxes.
3. Denticulate Mousterian
⮚ Characterized by great development of denticulated tools (35 to 55%) , few points but almost no handaxes.
4. Mousterian of Acheulian Tradition
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⮚ Occurrence of the high proportion of handaxes (8 - 50%)

⮚ Flake tools — extremely varied which include scapers, points.
1. Time Period -
⮚ The Mousterian Culture is associated with the Middle Palaeolithic period, spanning roughly from about
300,000 to 30,000 years ago.
2. Geographical Spread -
⮚ Mousterian tools and artefacts have been found across Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia and
Africa.
3. Tools -
⮚ The Mousterian toolkit is characterized by the production of more refined and versatile stone tools
compared to earlier periods.
⮚ Notable tools include bifacial handaxes, cleavers, and especially the Levallois technique, a method of
stone tool production that involves shaping a core before striking off predetermined flakes.
4. Technology -
⮚ The Levallois technique allowed for the production of standardized flakes, which were then used for
various purposes such as cutting and hunting.
⮚ Tools were often made from locally available materials, showcasing adaptability to different
environments.
5. Hunting and Subsistence -
⮚ Mousterian communities were likely proficient hunters and gatherers.
⮚ Evidence suggests a diverse diet including large game, supplemented by plants and smaller animals.
6. Shelters and Living Spaces -
⮚ Mousterian communities are associated with rock shelters and caves, where they left behind evidence
of hearths and other communal activities.
7. Cultural Practices -
⮚ Limited symbolic artifacts have been found, suggesting a developing symbolic or cultural aspect to
their behavior.
⮚ Burial practices, though not universally present, have been identified in some Mousterian sites.
8. Neanderthals -
⮚ The Mousterian Culture is often associated with Neanderthals, the hominins living in Europe and parts
of Asia during this period.
⮚ Overall, the Mousterian Culture represents a significant phase in human prehistory marked by
advancements in tool technology and adaptation to a variety of environments.

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