Raw material, typology and technology of tools made on animal-derived osseous materials from Bihar: Neolithic to Kushana period

Abstract

Evidence outlining the subsistence pattern of the Early Agro-Pastoral community of Bihar, which is available in front of us in the form of remains made of stone, metal, terracotta, and osseous material. Much study has been done on the artifacts made of various mediums, not so much on the substances like bone, antler, ivory and tortoise shell in study area. It gives information regarding the specific utilization of multifarious animal species by prehistoric societies. The bone tools from the Neolithic culture form the initial stage of manufacturing process in the assemblages of Bihar. Because of its physical properties, it was one of the most preferred raw materials used by the prehistoric community to make tools, weapons, toys, and ceremonial objects. This paper aims to re-examine bone tools available for study and review published materials on bone artifacts recovered from the Neolithic period to the Kushana period located in Bihar. Through methodological approaches, significant information can be drawn about the manufacturers and consumers of these objects. A techno-typological study has been conducted primarily focused on the manufacturing techniques of the tools. For the identification of materials, the description published in excavation reports was applied. The aim of the present investigation is to analyse the tools typology, technology, and preferred raw materials, all of which seem to have considered crucial for the social and economic activities of the early community of Bihar.