Stead, Roberta E
Description
A classification of Australian Aboriginal stone arrangements is
fundamental to the understanding of their function and social significance for
both Australian and world prehistory.
The implications of certain problems with the archaeological data for a
classification of arrangements, such as dating and inadequate reporting, are
discussed. Possible principles governing the mode of construction, design and
location of arrangements are investigated, and the criteria for...[Show more] classification
suggested.
A two-tier classification is proposed. On the first level, the technological
and morphological characteristics of discrete stone arrangements are
organised into classes. On the second level, the combination of arrangement
classes at any one site defines site types. 144 sites in four regions in New
South Wales are classified. Comparisons are made between classes and site
types within each region and across regions. Existing opinions about the
distribution of so-called 'simple' and 'complex' types are challenged.
An investigation of the relationship between classes or site types, and
other kinds of archaeological sites, such as rock art, reveals no perfect
correlations either within one region or across regions. It is proposed that any
governing principles are more likely to have operated at a local level,
reflecting such factors as local topography, beliefs and traditions, and
population density, rather than at a universal level.
The significance of a classification of stone arrangements for studies on
culture areas, and on complex Aboriginal hunter-gathering is discussed. Further
research is proposed with regard to the former. The construction and location
of many arrangements is regarded as evidence for a considerable investment of
time and energy in non-subsistence activities. It is suggested that these stone
arrangements are associated with the archaeological evidence identified by
Australian and overseas researchers, for an increasingly more complex stage in
the evolution of hunter-gatherers, in which ceremonial and ritual requirements
were paramount.
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