Photograph (2 of 4), showing the making of an antler harpoon head

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This photograph shows the early stages of making a harpoon head from deer antler. Such harpoons were used by early people when fishing.

A suitable tine of antler has been cut off using stone knives and split. The edges of the harpoon are now carved with a sharp stone knife.

Modern attempts to duplicate the skills and objects of early people have led to increased understanding - and respect - for their methods. Such reconstructions also help archaeologists interpret the discovered remains.

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• Online ID: 000-180-000-720-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  
• Date: 2000
  
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• References:
  • Chasing the Deer. On the National Museums of Scotland website http://www.nms.ac.uk/education 
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