On the issue of chipped industry redistribution centres with the Linear Pottery Culture

Lithic inventory of the IIb stage from Pustějov in the “Oderská brána” Gate

Abstract

All sites in the “Oderská brána” Gate, Czech Silesia and North Moravia, a somewhat marginal region from the viewpoint of LBK occupation, are linked by an abundant occurrence of chipped industry, produced mainly from the chert of the Cracowian-Częstochowa Jurassic formation, the outcrops of which are 150 km distant. In spite of this remnants of cortex were ascertained on nearly one third of artefacts and cores are as numerous as formal tools. Because of a considerable distance from the source the sites with such composition of industry are usually considered to be secondary production centres. The discussion makes a reference to the fact that remnants of cortex could be left on the artefacts intentionally, since they testify to the provenance of the stone (either geographical or perhaps even below-ground). In addition to the distance from the source, intensity and manner of working with flint is determined by a number of other factors, for instance relaxation or competitiveness among knappers. The special liking for this activity in the remote Upper Oder enclave and evidence of fishing can be related to the Mesolithic traditions. Secondary production centres could only come into existence as a consequence of an increased demand for chipped industry; however this demand was often very low exactly in the settlements with the LBK.