Techno-typological Characterisation of the Bone Artefacts at Gedikkaya Cave (Türkiye), Late Neolithic and Chalcolithic

Gedikkaya Cave, which is located in the İnhisar district of Bilecik Province, is a multi-period upland site with evidence of discontinuous occupation dating from the Epipalaeolithic to the Hellenistic periods. Rescue excavations (2019–2023) have uncovered well-stratified deposits from the Late Neolithic and the end of the Early Chalcolithic. This study details the cave's stratigraphy and findings, and presents the analysis of a collection of 44 bone artefacts – bone is a shortcut for bone, antler and tooth – dating to the end of the 7th and first half of the 6th millennia BCE. A range of examinations was carried out, including microscopic observations, searching for information on the species and anatomical selection, manufacturing traces and use-wear. The aim is to define the composition of the assemblage and to enable comparison with neighbouring sites with which it shares similar artefact types, such as in Barcın Höyük, Gülpınar, Ulucak Höyük and Yeşilova Höyük. Ruminant long bones, particularly tibiae and metapodials, are favoured. In terms of morpho-functional categories, pointed tools predominate, followed by cutting-edge implements and spoon-shaped items. Rarer forms include tubes and split-rib artefacts. The most common production technique is sawing percussion, abrasion, scraping and varied perforation techniques were also applied. Many artefacts are heavily used, fragmented or recycled, and some bear decorative treatments. Documenting this assemblage expands regional reference data and sheds light on on-site activities and craftwork during a poorly understood period of settlement change.