Description

Summary: 4 flint nodule cups (one perforated) formed from decayed fossil sponges, found by the legs of a primary male and female (shaman/metalworker?) inhumation in bowl barrow Upton Lovell G2a, excavated by William Cunnington

Research results

Four flint nodules probably used as cups for mixing materials found with the primary double-inhumation of the Early Bronze Age Upton Lovell G2a barrow. Excavated by William Cunnington in 1801. The burial contained the skeletons of a male and female, along with an array of grave unusual goods, which led to the interpretation of the grave as a 'shaman' burial.

This object and the other grave goods found with the Upton Lovell G2a primary double-burial have been examined by Tsoraki et al. (in prep.) as part of the Beyond the Three Age System project. This analysis identified microwear consistent with light mixing activities, as well residues or staining in the interior of the cups.