Incisions description (parallel, curved and even impressions).
Inclusions characterization (color, shape and size).
Cross section characterization (in case of visible layers).
Backscattered Images acquired by Scanning Electron Microscopy at 50x and 100x magnification. Images from right to left top and bottom surface 1 to 5 at 50 x. Image 6 at 100x.
This wild boar jawbone from Yayoi-era Minamikata settlement bears clear signs of deliberate craftsmanship, with both branches of the jaw expertly perforated.
It is believed that such jaws were hung outside dwellings, either for ritual purposes or perhaps as a display of the household prosperity.
Initial examination of cranial deformities suggests that the animal was likely non-domesticated or showed minimal signs of domestication.
Shell from the Minamikata site
This seashell hails from the excavation of Minamikata, an ancient Yayoi-era settlement nestled within the bustling heart of present-day Okayama, Shimane Prefecture. It's a tangible relic of the ingenious resourcefulness of the local inhabitants, who ingeniously fashioned everyday tools and ceremonial artifacts from shells and bones. In all likelihood, this particular shell served as a spoon, a function it shares with other shells discovered in the vicinity.
Boar skull from the Minamikata site
This sizable wild boar skull, unearthed from the Minamikata site dating back to the Yayoi period, appears to exhibit distinct signs of domestication by the local populace. The domestication process often involves a reduction in defensive features, such as horns and tusks, as well as a decrease in cranial size. In the case of wild boars, it results in a flattening of the cranial structure, making it more akin to that of domestic pigs.
Deer jaw bone from the Minamikata site
This deer jawbone, originating from the Minamikata site, is one of the many pieces of evidence supporting the integral role these animals played in the diet of the Yayoi-era inhabitants. The bone manipulations suggest activities ranging from butchering to various other purposes. In general, teeth and cranial fragments could be transformed into luxury items used for adorning dwellings.
This skull of a deer was excavated from the Minamikata site in Okayama Prefecture.
This nearly intact deer skull was discovered near the Minamikata site dating back to the Yayoi period. Despite its remarkable state of preservation, no signs of deliberate craftsmanship have been identified on it thus far. Nevertheless, it stands as a significant testament to the presence of these animals, which were a staple in the daily diet and thrived in abundance in the Okayama region during that era.
Qualitative analysis observing the spectra peaks of the measurements performed on the slightly polished area of the finding. Finer processing (as quantitative analysis) is prevented by the presence of alteration products and soil on the surface.
Observation of corrosion products morphology by stereomicroscopy on finding exposed area in order to point details emerging from the resulting computed tomography and interpretation of 3D volume reconstruction of metal shard.
Characterization of pottery shard based on stereomicroscopy. The observations takes in consideration the outer part (front), inner part (back) and the cross section of the shard, characterizing the clay matrix, inclusions and other peculiarities.
Characterization of pottery shard based on stereomicroscopy. The observations takes in consideration the outer part (front), inner part (back) and the cross section of the shard, characterizing the clay matrix, inclusions and other peculiarities.
Characterization of pottery shard based on stereomicroscopy. The observations takes in consideration the outer part (front), inner part (back) and the cross section of the shard, characterizing the clay matrix, inclusions and other peculiarities.
Sueki pottery, wall with traces of a burning activity on the face and many inclusions of quartz. Inside and outside is burned. Impressed decoration inside and outside
P26 in Oka。
Sueki pottery, wall with traces of a burning activity on the face and many inclusions of quartz. Inside and outside is burned. Impressed decoration inside and outside
P22 in Oka.
Ceramic roof tile. External surface presents impressions from twisted cord used in the production process. Internal surface presents marks left by a textile.
P119 in Oka.
