Two Technological Traditions of Bifacial Points from the Breach Farm Site, Wales: An Interdisciplinary Analysis of Lithic Technology Integrating Experimental Replication, X-Ray Fluorescence, and Geometric Morphometry

To accurately replicate highly complex, flaked stone artifacts using the same raw materials as the original artifacts is a challenge for any present-day flintknapper. Replication of individual bifacial points from a Bronze Age burial mound in Wales led to further study of the artifacts. Integrating experimental replication, technological analysis, x-ray fluorescence, and geometric morphometry, we conducted a study of the bifacial points from the Breach Farm site. Results revealed two technological traditions; the technological details of the production sequences; possible use of a source of Greensand chert in France as raw material on both shores of the English Channel; no evidence of practical use or post-depositional damage; and the considerable expertise of the flintknapper(s). This study suggests contact across the English Channel involving people from Armorica (France) by trade or tribute, and it supports interpretations of production of these artifacts for mortuary contexts rather than functional use as arrowpoints.