Assessing bone and antler exploitation at Riparo Mochi (Balzi Rossi, Italy): Implications for the characterization of the Aurignacian in South-western Europe

Based on current evidence, the base of Unit G of Riparo Mochi (Balzi Rossi, Italy), dating to around 37-36.5 ka BP (41.5 cal BP), is the oldest directly-dated Aurignacian assemblage in Italy. In this paper, the lithic assemblage coming from this layer has been functionally analyzed. From a technological perspective, the assemblage is mainly represented by a bladelet production made from non-local raw materials and by an elongated-flake production made from local flint. Regardless of this technological difference, the lithics have been used for tasks linked to the treatment of animal materials. In particular, besides retouched tools showing traces of hard materials (bone or antler), unretouched tools show traces related to butchering or cutting soft/medium material, such as meat and hide. According to the type and distribution of the macro and microwears, a possible reconstruction of the hafting technique is also suggested