Production and Exchange of Stone Tools Prehistoric Obsidian in the Aegean

Robin Torrence

ISBN 10: 0521252660 / ISBN 13: 9780521252669

Published by Cambridge University Press, 1986

About this Item

Pencil notes in front, some pencil margin marks; New Studies In Archaeology.

Seller Inventory # 1000142853

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Production and Exchange of Stone Tools Prehistoric Obsidian in the Aegean
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication Date: 1986
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521252660
• ISBN 13: 9780521252669
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: First Edition.
• Condition: Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: Very Good

About this title

Synopsis

Originally published in 1986, the aim of this important study was to develop methods for reconstructing the processes of prehistoric exchange. Previous archaeological work had concentrated on mapping obsidian finds relative to source areas using trace-element analysis and on investigating the effect of trade on particular cultural groups. Dr Torrence, in contrast, drew extensively on ethnographic analogy to develop an approach that uses differences in the level of efficiency for the acquisition of raw materials and the production of goods to infer the type of exchange. Regional patterns of tool manufacture, specialist craft production at central places and quarrying are analysed in detail in the context of the prehistoric Aegean and previous ideas about the importance of trade in the growth of civilisations are re-assessed. The methodology developed will be applicable to a wide range of artefact types and the book will therefore be of value to archaeologists working in many different places and periods.

Book Description

Originally published in 1986, the aim of this important study was to develop methods for reconstructing the processes of prehistoric exchange. Previous archaeological work had concentrated on mapping obsidian finds relative to source areas using trace-element analysis and on investigating the effect of trade on particular cultural groups.