The Middle Neolithic settlement at Auve

Abstract

The MN settlement site at Auve, Sandefjord, Vestfold, Norway was excavated in 1976-84. Large amounts offlint, worked slate, pumice, other stone artefacts, bone artefacts, amber, and potsherds were found. Radiocarbon dates range from 4980±70 BP to 3595±60 BP. Sea mammals dominate the bone material. Manifold investigations ofthe ceramics indicate a not previously identified ceramic complex, the SKK group. The definition includes special manufacturing methods and a vessel shaping and ornamentation ofits own. Further studies ofthe relationship in time and space between the SKK group and other Neolithic ceramics producing units in Nor-way are important topics for future research. Organic remains adhering to some potsherds where analysed microscopically for visible structures, and chemically for lipids, proteins and trace elements. The remains where interpreted as being offood-origin, mainly terrestrial mamma! with possible inclusions ofvegetables. The dis-cussion includes a comparison of the different resources utilized at Auve, as sug-gested by the organic remains and the osteological material.