Mesolithic (11,600 - 4000 BCE)
The Mesolithic period (or 'Middle Stone Age') in Britain dates from just after the end of the Pleistocene ('Ice Age') approximately 11,600 years ago, to the beginning of the Neolithic period about 4000 BC. During the Mesolithic period Britain slowly became an island. This was due to a warmer period which saw ice sheets melting, a rise in sea levels and covering the land bridge (Doggerland) which connected Britain to Europe. New tools were developed. Axes, which had been held in the hand in the Palaeolithic period, were now hafted onto wooden handles. They were also given smooth polished surfaces. Tiny flakes of sharp flint known as microliths were used as arrow heads and spear points, many which were barbed. The Mesolithic period is the earliest post-glacial period known in England. It ended with the beginning of farming, about 6,000 years ago.
Description: Mesolithic/Neolithic Flint blade, sickle shaped 11,600 4000 years BCE -Ref. # SI/11
Date: Around 11,600 4000 years
Marks/Observations: Origin of artefact Europe/Britain. From an old collection and marked Culbane. Culbane is found in Co. Antrim, North Ireland. This is a well shaped flint blade with a flat base and defined slightly curved shape. Often used for cutting plant material such as grain. Neolithic sickle blades were typically a composite of small stone blades that were hafted in a long row into a handle and used much as modern sickles are used. Described by the British Museum from a photo sent to them as Flint Blade, Mesolithic or Neolithic?
Dimensions: 8cm x 3cm x 1cm
Price: R300.00
Shipping: R120.00 by courier
Please note, I am NOT a qualified archaeologist/antiquarian and the description I have given is based on research of the subject and communication with the British Museum.
This is a genuine artefact.
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