We explore the fascinating intersection of ancient history and modern technology, where deep learning unveils the craftsmanship behind Paleolithic stone tools. Our ancestors and Neanderthals crafted these essential survival tools using diverse techniques, which not only reflect their daily needs but also their evolutionary journeys. Through the lens of cutting-edge (no pun intended) computational methods, we decode the morphological secrets of these artifacts, opening a window into our distant past.
The first crucial step in this analysis involves employing deep learning to identify lithic scars on the stone tools, which are key indicators of the methods and techniques used by ancient humans and Neanderthals in tool production. By accurately identifying these scars, the model sets the stage for deeper morphological analysis and insights, offering a pathway to potentially trace the evolutionary paths of tool-making strategies through the ages.
This work is a collaboration between the ML Colab and Dr. Armando Falcucci from the University of Tübingen