Cornish Archaeology Online – Experimental determination of mèche de foret use at the Mesolithic site of Ventonteague with Leah Sulliva

The purpose of this research is to develop a more in-depth understanding of Mesolithic site usage through experimental archaeology and comparative use-wear analysis. Acknowledging the similarities between the emerging Mesolithic site Ventonteague and the well-known site Star Carr in North Yorkshire. Both consisted of extremely large assemblages and recorded mèche de foret with an abundance of shale beads. In 2022 the researchers at Star Carr published a paper detailing a project where they had produced replica mèche de foret, which were then used on different contact materials found at the site. They compared the reference collection against archaeological awls and mèche de foret and were able to spatially plot those with their determined material use, against the site plan to infer concentrated areas of specific activity. This research project used Star Carr’s methods as a base for expanding our knowledge of Mesolithic sites by looking closer at Ventonteague. Surviving material at the site was limited to those of more durable construct. Predominantly, flint, soft mineral and a few fragments of hazelnut. To show what organic material had likely not been preserved, multiple sources were used to theorise availability during the Mesolithic in Cornwall. Like the project at Star Carr, replica mèche de foret were created and used on a range of materials. From there, use-wear patterns were seen under the microscope, recorded and then compared against archaeological mèche de foret from Ventonteague. This comparison stage confirmed that a range of materials were in use at the site during the Mesolithic. The next stage of the project should help to find those concentrated areas of specific activity. 

Leah is a self-employed archaeologist with Cornwall Archaeological Unit. She did a BA (Hons) in Archaeology and Heritage Studies from the University of Worcester, followed by a Post Graduate Certificate in Archaeological Research Methods from the University of Worcester and continued with a Graduate Certificate in Experimental Archaeology and Material Culture at University College Dublin. Her current role as a Finds Specialist with CAU involves assessing flint material recovered from the A30 road scheme.

Further details will be added closer in time to the event.