Technological Traces on Ornithomorphic Bone Figurines from Neolithic Archaeological Sites of the Baraba Forest-steppe: Traceological Analysis

Purpose. This research aims to study the traces of bone processing on figurines from Neolithic sites of the Baraba forest-steppe using traceological analysis in order to reconstruct the basic techniques used in making these artifacts. The study focuses on the most numerous ornithomorphic images found in the Neolithic burial sites of Korchugan (nine objects from the 6th millennium BC) and Vengerovo-2A (two objects from the late 6th millennium BC). Results. The Korchugan figurines have almost no traces due to careful smoothing of their surfaces during the final production stage, they were probably shaped using the carving technique. The concentric linear marks on the walls of holes indicate the use of biconical drilling. In the tail section, there is a gradual narrowing towards the sides and 3–5 faintly visible subparallel linear traces (or faint rub marks), which suggests that figurines were intended for sewing. The Vengerovo-2A figurine has a hole in its center and a flat base and not preserved any traces due to poor conservation. The sculpted pommel of the bone knife was made by carving, as evidenced by the marks in the tail section. The characteristic curvature and the surface texture of the artefact suggest that it was made out of a rib. Conclusion. When studying the technological traces on bone figurines, there are several limitations to consider. Despite these, it has been possible to identify or suggest several techniques for producing Neolithic ornithomorphic figurines from the Baraba forest-steppe – carving, biconic drilling, and grinding or polishing.