An evaluation of the antler headdress evidence from Hohen Viecheln

Abstract

Five possible antler headdresses have been reported from Hohen Viecheln over the last 60 years. This paper will address and discuss these objects in the light of new findings and discoveries. In the end, one of the five artefacts can, while another one may be assigned to the group of headdresses. Besides the long-known bifacially worked headdress HV1 this paper presents a finding that remained undiscussed over the last decades (HV5). Both show clear affinities to finds from other sites via typology and techniques involved in their manufacturing. Finally, HV1 as predating all other directly dated finished objects at Hohen Viecheln sheds light on the pioneering phase of occupation at the site in the Late Preboreal chronozone.