Denticulated Tool

Unknown

ca. 240,000–40,000 B.C. · Flint · Egyptian Art

This tool likely dates to the Middle Paleolithic period because certain features bear similarity to the Levallois core preparation method that was widely used during the Middle Paleolithic Period. The Middle Paleolithic saw the rise of more complex stone tool technologies and more variability in tool types compared to the Lower Paleolithic. This change is associated with the increasing complexity of Hominin behavior —such as specialized hunting, pyrotechnology, and the use of symbols— eventually resulting in anatomically and behaviorally modern humans. The tool has denticulated retouch on part of one lateral edge and irregular retouch on the other edge. It was made on a plunging flake that removed part of the bottom of the core, resulting in an irregular thick end.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 240,000–40,000 B.C.

Medium

Flint

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Gift of C. T. Currelly, 1906