Western Europe, Northern France, Oise Department, Hardivillers, Middle Paleolithic, Levallois-Mousterian period, ca. 300,000 to 40,000 years ago. A chert (flint) core made by early human ancestors, that demonstrates a relatively advanced technology for the Stone Age! This slightly domed core with a flattened side was made using the Levallois technique also known as a prepared-core method. In the simplest of explanations, a larger chert stone core is carefully worked- chipping a perimeter to break away this secondary core- as seen here. From this secondary and slightly more prepared core, flakes could then be more easily knapped off to produce tools and blades. This technique was used by the Neanderthals of Europe and modern humans in other regions. Size: 5.5" L x 3.5" W x 2" H (14 cm x 8.9 cm x 5.1 cm)

The Levallois reduction method, emerging around 300,000 years ago in Africa, signifies a significant shift from Acheulean technology. This method reflects advanced strategic planning in stone-flaking, indicating enhanced cognitive capabilities and working memory, characteristics of high-level cognition in Homo sapiens and other contemporary Homo species like Neanderthals!

Provenance: private Manhattan, Illinois, USA collection, acquired before 2000; ex-J.L. Gasnier collection

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#184019

Find site and old inventory numbers written on the surface. Age and weathering expected chips and abrasions, but otherwise intact and excellent.