[Bonetools] preparation of bone for experiments

[Dave Constantine]

Hello, 

The main points to avoid in order to make any practical bone working easier is to never roast the bone and don’t bleach it as both of these will weaken the bone and can cause it to splinter and be unusable. 

To prepare a fresh scapula (I would assume it is from a butchers or similar and has had the majority of the flesh cut away), remove any remaining larger deposits of flesh and trim off as much fatty tissue, cartilage etc as possible. 

Once the bone has been cleaned of as much soft tissue as possible, boil it until the remaining tissue shrivels and pulls from the bone. At this point remove the bone from the water and allow it to cool (do not cool it with cold water as this can shatter or crack the bone). After it has cooled, the shrivelled tissue should easily pull off the bone, leaving it clean and ready to work. It is important to not allow the bone to boil for too long, as boiling can also adversely affect the workability of the bone.

David Constantine

From: Alice Choyke 
Sent: Monday, September 10, 2012 11:12 AM
To: Mailing list for archaeologists of the research group for the study ofobject and waste of bone,antler. ivory and horn. 
Subject: [Bonetools] preparation of bone for experiments

This letter was sent to the ZOOARCH mailing list but I am re-circulating it here as there are many experimental experts out there. Please respond to BOTH Sylvia and to the maillist so we may all learn.

Alice


Sylvia.Warman at english-heritage.org.uk 

11:33 AM (36 minutes ago)


to ZOOARCH 
Hello everyone.

A friend is about to embark on a bit of experimental archaeology - to make a comb from a cattle scapula (fresh). They asked what method of preparation would be best.

I am familiar with what would make a good reference specimen, but wonder if different treatments at an early stage will make it easier to work?

Any ideas/suggestions?

Many Thanks

Sylvia


Dr Sylvia Warman | Science Advisor, London
Direct Line: 0207 973 3733
Mobile Phone: 07881805347

English Heritage | 1 Waterhouse Square
138-42 Holborn | London EC1N 2ST

www.english-heritage.org.uk


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