Antiquity 70 (270)

The 1996 Society for American Archaeology meeting included several sessions/workshops concerning Palaeolithic stone tool residues and functional analysis. During the course of these events there was some doubt cast on the distinctiveness of microscopic residues, the integrity/reactivity of ancient bio-molecules, the viability of current methodologies, and consequently the reliability of taxonomic identifications on ancient stone artefacts. The current authors take issue with these views concluding that careful microscopic analysis can reveal plant and animal residues dating back tens, and even hundreds, of thousands of years.

This study of three industrial buildings draws upon building and documentary evidence as aids to understanding working structures not distinguished by technological or engineering innovation.

Chronicles the development of wheeled light vehicles of battle. Mostly Near Eastern and steppe evidence.

Presents data for the whole of Britain, concluding that cave burial was an important Neo practice.

Reply to an earlier article (see 96/896).