A 100,000-Year-Old Ochre-Processing Workshop at Blombos Cave, South Africa

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Publication Date

October 2011

Publication Title

Science

Volume Number

334

Issue Number

6053

Abstract

The conceptual ability to source, combine, and store substances that enhance technology or social practices represents a benchmark in the evolution of complex human cognition. Excavations in 2008 at Blombos Cave, South Africa, revealed a processing workshop where a liquefied ochre-rich mixture was produced and stored in two Haliotis midae (abalone) shells 100,000 years ago. Ochre, bone, charcoal, grindstones, and hammerstones form a composite part of this production toolkit. The application of the mixture is unknown, but possibilities include decoration and skin protection.

Keywords

Haliotis Midae, Blombos Cave, Evolution Of Complex Human Cognition

Geographic Subject

Blombos Cave, South Africa

Document Type

Article

Language

English

Identifier

SFS0049715_00001

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