The controversial case of a coastal Mesolithic tool: a geometric approach to the analysis of the Asturian pick

Abstract

The Mesolithic period along the coast of the Cantabrian Region (Spain), known as the "Asturian" is distinguished by the presence of shell middens and a particular lithic tool, the Asturian pick. Despite the tool's archaeological significance, its technological and functional aspects have not been fully understood, resulting in ambiguous interpretations of its morphological relationships and utilitarian purposes. Our research aims to quantify and analyse the technological processes that have influenced the Asturian pick?s form and investigate the selection criteria governing its morphology and choice of raw materials. A novel aspect of our approach is the use of digital methods, including photogrammetry and three-dimensional geometric morphometric analysis. We analysed a sample of Asturian pick's, compared against a control group of different elements and raw material specimens. The findings corroborate the homogeneity and standardisation of the Asturian pick's design and unveil regional shape variations that correspond with the distinct raw materials available in each locality.