TOOL

This retouched tool combines tools of two groups: a concave truncation burin and a straight truncation. The blade support on which the tool is made measures 77 x 19 x5mm in maximum dimension. The dorsal scar pattern on the blade indicates it was also one of a sequence of blades detached preferentially from one end of a blade core. The flint is a lightly patinated mottled grey colour and is in fresh condition. There are a number of negative flake scars on the ventral surface which appear to be contemporary with the tool as they display the same patination as the main surfaces. The burin is located at the proximal end of the blade. The truncation consists of a single flake scar which provided the platform for the burin removal. The burin facet has a maximum width of 3mm. There is no damage associated with the facet except at its distal extremity which is probably due to preparation to guide the removal of the burin spall. Small flake scars on the left edge and adjacent to the truncation (ventral surface) appear to be linked with preparing the truncation. The truncation of the proximal end of the blade is a straight truncation formed by direct, abrupt retouch. Retouched tools of this type can occur in both Mesolithic and Upper Palaeolithic contexts; the quality of the blade implies a Late Palaeolithic origin.