Pages: 581-592

High magnification use-wear analyses in their current form have been around for forty years. They are carried out with a metallographic microscope. In order to diagnose a function, we compare microtraces observed on artefacts with those appearing on experimental objects that are part of a reference frame. Thus, the identification of the functions of archaeological artefacts is mainly done through qualitative analyses. In this text, in the light of our experience as use-wear analysts, we take a look at the qualitative aspect of these analyses and the more discrete role played by quantitative component. This is based on the practice and results achieved over many years by specialists from all over the world.

Keywords: Use-wear analysis, traceology, Analytical methodology in archaeology, Prehistory, Lithic tool function, Qualitative analyses, Quantitative analyses, Experimental reference

Information about authors:

Jacques Chabot (Québec city, Canada). Professor, PhD.  Université Laval, Département des sciences historiques. Pavillon De Koninck, 1030 avenue des sciences humaines, Québec, Qc,G1V0A6, Canada
E-mail: [email protected]
Marie-Michelle Dionne (Québec city, Canada). PhD. GAIA, Coopérative de travail en archéologie. 109 rue Louis-IX, Québec (QC), Canada, G2B 1K4
E-mail: [email protected]