Description

Summary: Perforated antler, possibly used as a pendant (broken), found with primary inhumation in Bowl Barrow Wimborne St. Giles G18, excavated by William Cunnington

Research results

A Bronze Age perforated antler, the only grave good found accompanying a primary inhumation in Bowl Barrow in Winterbourne St. Giles G18, excavated by William Cunnignton. The unusual shape of the antler is probably due to abnormal growth in the animal, and yet, despite its shape, the tangs show no signs of wear and nor does the man made perforation. Rather, the most worn area of the antler is the base, suggesting it had been used as a soft hammer, perhaps in flint knapping, or drum stick.