ABSTRACT
Chapter 7 is concerned with artifacts and ancient technologies, with the past and the present. After discussing the basics of the classification of artifacts, we review the major ancient technologies, from simple stone artifacts to elaborate iron objects and fine textiles. Understanding ancient technologies and artifacts draws on analogies and insights acquired from traditional technologies still in use today. We describe some controlled studies of living hunter-gatherer and subsistence farming societies can help interpret the archaeological record and discuss the uses and limitations of ethnographic analogy. Finally, we discuss some examples of experiments with ancient technologies that throw light on ancient practices still in use in hunting and farming societies today..
