ACHEULIAN - NORTH AFRICA

FLAKE CORE

Ref #:  94

Type:  Flake Tool Core

Material:  Siltstone

Period:  Acheulian  500,000 - 200,000 years ago

Provenance:  Northern Sahara Desert

Measurements:  10.7cm x 7.7 cm

Comments:  Bifacial flake core possibly used as axe.  Extreme wind erosion on both sides brings out dramatic display of layers in the stone.  Tip has been worn to a sheet of thin stone.  Thick gloss from 'desert varnish' patina.  Minor modern flake on edge shows texture and color of unexposed stone beneath surface.