Prehistoric Woodworking: The Analysis and Interpretation of Bronze and Iron Age Toolmakers

Rob Sands explores the evidence left by the use of axes on wooden beams and tools found in waterlogged archaeological sites dating over 2000 years old. A toolmark can not only inform the archaeologist about the implement used, but also provides evidence of building and artifact construction methods and labor patterns. Examples come from the author's work at Oakbank Crannog in Scotland. The volume examines the methods of recording, techniques of analysis and implications of this unusual form of evidence.

Preface Foreword Abstract 1. The Potential of Toolmark Signatures 2. Past Commentaries on Toolmarks 3. Toolmark Recording 4. Computer Analysis 5. Oakbank Crannog 6. Wooden Material at Oakbank Crannog 7. The Toolmarks at Oakbank Crannog 8. The Results of the Case Study 9. Comparing Axemarks to Known Tool Finds 10. The Use of Toolmark Results and Dendrochronology 11. The Potential Realised? Glossary Bibliography Index