Abstract
This article presents a zooarchaeological study of a small faunal assemblage recovered from Areas B, D and E at Eshta’ol, dating to the Late Chalcolithic period (Stratum IV), Early Bronze Age IB (Stratum III) and Intermediate Bronze Age (Stratum II). A total of 250 bone fragments were analyzed, with 86 identifiable specimens representing eight species, primarily from the EB IB stratum. The assemblage is dominated by domestic animals—especially caprines, cattle and pigs. Mortality profiles based on epiphyseal fusion and dental wear indicate a preference for secondary products—such as wool, milk and dung—over meat consumption. Small-scale farming and agricultural activity may also be reflected in the available faunal evidence. The analysis tentatively considers consumption patterns, environmental reconstruction and probable site formation processes at Eshta’ol.
Keywords
zooarchaeology, caprines, consumption patterns, environmental reconstruction
Recommended Citation
Maher, Edward F.
(2025)
"Eshta’ol: Faunal Remains from the Chalcolithic Period and Bronze Age,"
Qadum: Journal of Excavation Reports from Israel: Vol. 1, Article 40.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70967/3078-8528.1039
Available at:
https://publications.iaa.org.il/qadum/vol1/iss1/40
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