CAJ | 학술논문

The functions and operation methods of the polished stone spades found from the remains of Lower Xiajiadian Culture in Dashanqian Site have long been an unresolved question, and the relevant arguments about them have been generally limited in the knowledge of common sense. This paper studies their functions and socio-historical significance on the basis of the analyses on their form patterns, technological designs, use-wear, replication and use experiments, as well as ethnographic analogy. The synthesized method can make function distinguishing more reliable. It draws a conclusion that the polished stone spades of Dashanqian Site were used as hoes for intertillage weeding, not for digging as shovels or pickaxes. A minor part of spades probably were used for sowing. Finally, it discusses the role of the tool in the agricultural system, coordinated with the studies of the socio-historical background and physical environment of that period. It suggests that the early intensive agricultural system was established at the time of Lower Xiajiadian Culture, and the whole tool assemblage, including digging, tilling and weeding tools, also changed in this transition.