Woodworking in the cliffs? Xylological and morpho-technological analyses of wood remains in the Prehispanic granaries of Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain)

Recovery and analyses of perishable non-charred archaeological wood is extremely rare. Traceological analyses in general are still scarce and mainly focused on waterlogged remains. Ancient desiccated wood from the Canary Islands offers an exceptional opportunity to identify the processes and techniques of the indigenous populations prior to the arrival in the 14th and 15th centuries AD of European colonists. This paper offers xylological and morpho-technological data linked to artefacts recovered in cliffside Prehispanic communal granaries in Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain). The findings gleaned from a combination of xylological and traceological analyses are for the moment the first of their type of the archipelago's indigenous contexts. The data suggest the widespread exploitation of pine (Pinus canariensis) and fig tree (Ficus carica) and advances several analytical categories for wood artefacts and fragments. The identification and description of the different traces is followed by hypotheses as to the technical actions and the nature of the active edges of the stone tools. Thus, work-waste is identified and linked to several technical actions with the aim of reconstructing the chaines ope ' ratoires. Moreover, further experimental research could offer a better understanding of the functions of these wooden artefacts.

Automated summary

This paper focuses on the recovery and analysis of desiccated wood artifacts from Prehispanic communal granaries in Gran Canaria, offering insights into the processes and techniques of the indigenous populations. Through a combination of xylological and traceological analyses, the study provides valuable data on the exploitation of pine and fig tree resources, as well as hypotheses regarding technical actions and tool use. Further experimental research is suggested to enhance understanding of the functions of these wooden artifacts.