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This research investigates the technological and functional characteristics of fléchettes from the Gravettian layers, aiming to better understand projectile use in Upper Paleolithic societies.

July 10, 2026Journal of Archaeological Method and TheoryOpen Access

A Holistic Framework for Paleolithic Projectile Studies: Insights from Swabian Gravettian Fléchettes

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This research investigates the technological and functional characteristics of fléchettes from the Gravettian layers, aiming to better understand projectile use in Upper Paleolithic societies.
Detailed analysis of 54 fléchettes from specific cave sites.
Utilization of multiple analytical approaches, including technological analysis and use-wear analysis.
Experimental replication of fléchettes to compare wear patterns from different propulsion techniques.
High overlap of use-wear traces between Ach Valley fléchettes and those used in experimental spear-throwing.
Clustering of wear traces with ethnographic arrowheads suggests similarities in projectile use.
Hypotheses indicate fléchettes were part of a modular long-range weapon system used in the Gravettian.

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Implication

Technological analysis of fléchettes reveals insights into Upper Paleolithic projectile use, suggesting a sophisticated weapon system.

Cite This Study

Moos et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a508cc46eeac72a437a09ac https://doi.org/10.1007/s10816-026-09809-w

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A Holistic Framework for Paleolithic Projectile Studies: Insights from Swabian Gravettian Fléchettes

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Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study

A Holistic Framework for Paleolithic Projectile Studies: Insights from Swabian Gravettian Fléchettes

Key Points

Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study

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