The function and flexible use of a Neolithic microlithic assemblage from the Huihe dam site, Inner Mongolia: a quantifiable analysis of use-wear evidence

Microblade technology played a key role in the everyday lives of the occupants of Inner Mongolia during the Neolithic period. However, the functional aspect of the microblade assemblage and its role had not been widely studied. In order to better understand the occupants' daily life and toolkit management within this context, the current study conducted use-wear analyses on a large sample of lithic tools from a Neolithic microlithic assemblage found at the Huihe dam site and then addressed the implication of the results by integrating different lines of evidence from morphological, technological, and functional aspects through quantifiable analysis. Our study supports the site as a base camp where a wide range of activities were carried out. The results of the study also showed that it is highly probable that the intensive and flexible use of the microblade assemblage contributed to a sustainable hunter-gatherer lifestyle over a long period.