Mechanical-workmanship fine-hide perforation with a bone needle: interpretation of experimental results

Purpose. The experiments aimed at reconstruction of ancient sewing/needlework processes date back to the end of the 20th century. The purpose of the research is obtaining and analysing the traces of utilisation, along with the dynamics and specifics of their formation on a bone needle (with a vegetable-fibre thread) in the conditions of a small number of perforation holes on a fragment of fine mechanical-workmanship hide.Results. The study presents the results of the manufacture and the use of a sewing toolkit in the conditions close to the historical reality of ancient times. The needle is made of a mammoth tusk splinter; the hare hide is carefully processed to a soft state without resorting to any reagents - mechanically; the fastening material - a thread of vegetable origin - is made as based on already known archaeological samples. The result of using a bone needle was represented by the formation of a slight glossing over the entire surface of the needle, micro damage of the instrument tip with a characteristic “tongue-type” fracture, flattened relief of the needlework technological traces and the formation of linear, radial utilisation traces in the working perimeter of the thread.Conclusion. Several conclusions are made. Firstly, craftsmen of the Paleolithic period worked with fine-workmanship hides; the treatment could be made in a simple mechanical manner. Secondly, perforation with very thin needles without significant losses and modification of their shape, without the use of auxiliary technical devices as well as application of man’s physical effort is possible. Thirdly, vegetable fibre could act as a binding material - its use leaves characteristic signs of wear.