A PORTRAIT OF THE BLADES MADE AT CASA MONTERO

The flint blades made at Casa Montero are characterised by being small and robust; the most representative dimensions are around 48 mm length, 18 mm width, and 5 mm thickness. However, blades varying greatly in size have been found, from very much smaller up to much larger than these dimensions.

Four types of core reduction sequence (three prismatic and one Levallois) to produce blades have been recorded; these were used irrespective of the blade size sought. The technique most normally used was that of direct percussion, although signs of indirect percussion have also been found.

Abandoned initial, crested and cortical blades have all been unearthed; all show signs of knapping accidents and impurities. They may also have been left behind because they were not of the size desired. Blades showing no signs of the above problems, and which were of regular size, were regarded as being finished products.
Two sickles were identified as such by the study of their use-wear. Their characteristics and size suggest they were made at the mine, and reveal the use to which part of Casa Montero’s lithic production was put.