Traceological analysis of lithics from the Camel Site, al-Jawf, Saudi Arabia: an experimental approach to identifying mineral processing activities using silcrete tools

Abstract The Camel Site is in the north of Saudi Arabia province al-Jawf. It characterised by three decaying sandstone hillocks with life-sized 3D engravings (or reliefs) camels and equids likely carved during later prehistory. A survey central area site identified clusters flakes other flintknapping remains lower areas between spurs larger silcrete tools directly underneath animal depictions. Some these presented abraded edges, possibly from prolonged contact soft abrasive that constitutes rock where animals were carved. Experiments performed to test this hypothesis have a reference collection for further traceological analysis. chaine opératoire experimental engraving tools, raw material procurement, tool manufacture use, reuse discard, was conducted locally available materials comparable archaeological specimens. Specific variables, including how force applied, what direction movement took place orientation stone experiment, also recorded. Macro- microscopic analyses sample artefacts seem show ancient found on surface probably used make camelid equid reliefs at site.