Trapping or tethering stones (TS): A multifunctional device in the Pastoral Neolithic of the Sahara.

摘要: The Pierres de Ben Barour, also known as trapping or tethering stones (TS), are stone artefacts with notches grooves usually interpreted hunting devices on the basis of rock art engravings. Though their presence is a peculiar feature desert landscapes from Sahara to Arabian Peninsula, we know little about age, context and function. Here present new approach study these based large dataset (837 items) recorded in Messak plateau (SW Libya). A statistically-based geoarchaeological survey carried out between 2007 2011 Libya, alongside landscape intra-site analyses specific archaeological features (such art, settlement ceremonial contexts), reveal that were used for prolonged period, probably early Holocene. This was followed by multifunctional use devices, particularly during Pastoral Neolithic phase (ca. 6400–3000 cal BC), highest concentrations being found near contexts related cattle burials.