What function(s) for Palaeolithic polyhedrons, spheroids and bolas? Cases from France and North Africa

Polyhedrons, spheroids and bolas (PSBs) have been found in lithic series spanning two million years, but their purpose remains largely unknown. In this study, we propose a functional analysis of PSBs from nine assemblages from France and North Africa, ranging from 1.78 to 0.169 Ma. By combining use-wear, ergonomic and metric analyses with sequential experiments, we explore the meaning and diversity of these objects. Our experiments revealed two key findings: 1) the manufacture process creates intense traces on removal scars used as striking platforms, and 2) the existence of a paradox between the complexity of the manufacture process and their efficiency equal to that of cobbles. This can question the purpose of manufacturing a PSB instead of using a pebble, and may suggest an opportunistic recycling of PSB “preforms” (e.g. pebble tools, cores) in some cases. Our results also suggest that PSBs encompass a wide diversity of pieces with a cubical to rounded final shape. These objects may have been primarily used in heavy-duty tasks, some being possibly involved in different types of percussive activities (active or passive). Interestingly, our analyses suggest that there are similarities between PSBs respectively in South-western Europe and North Africa. By studying PSBs, we can gain insights not only into hominin behaviours, but also into regional traditions and the diffusion of techno-cultural practices during the Palaeolithic.