Analytical examination of animal remains from Borneo: The painting of bone and shell

F. B. Pyatt*, G. W. Barker, R. J. Rabett, K. Szabó, B. Wilson

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    15 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Examination of a selection of shell and bone from archaeological assemblages excavated at Niah Cave and Gua Sireh, both of which are located in Sarawak, Borneo, has revealed the deliberate application of coloured material to one or more surfaces. Small fragments of the surface colourant were analysed using a variety of techniques, including microscopy, energy dispersive microwave analysis and infra-red spectrophotometry. These procedures established that, although red in colour, the applied coating in each instance was not red iron oxide. It is suggested that, based on the chemical components present, this coating was a tree resin or a similar organic substance. The paper further reports the presence of enhanced chloride values in the colourant recovered from the ancient human cranial fragment tested. It is suggested that elevated concentrations of this trace element may indicate that the site, the human remains or ingredients within the colourant were once in close proximity to the sea.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)2102-2105
    Number of pages4
    JournalJournal of Archaeological Science
    Volume37
    Issue number9
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Sept 2010

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