KNIFE

An incomplete knapped flint long bladed and backed knife, probably dating from the Mesolithic – Late Neolithic period, between 8000 – 2200 BC (length: 93mm; width: 22mm; thickness: 9mm; weight: 20.71g).

The artefact has faintly visible ripples or ‘lunettes’ down its length on the ventral side, although the bulb of percussion and additional scars are not present. On the dorsal side of the knife, there is one main and central arrise with some retouch at the top left edge. There is extensive and multiple retouch down the right side edge, which continues down to the tip, where retouch encompasses this area to the opposite side. Additionally, on the left side edge, there appears to be an intentionally ground surface, which stretches for most of the artefacts length. Overall, the artefact is in a slightly worn but good condition and is dark brown in colour.

According to Dr. Jenni Chambers (Ice Age Network) [personal comment], this flint is not local to the area and is very large compared to other flint examples from the area. When complete, the artefact would have been of Long Blade dimensions. Although it is widely thought that this flint tool dates to the Mesolithic, if the artefact has been intentionally ground, then it would place it into the Late Neolithic, therefore giving a wide probable date range for the knife