Skeuomorphs what art thou? A skeuomorphic perspective on material preference and categorisation in prehistory

Abstract: Past material categorisation and preference in archaeological research are often heavily influenced by modern material perception, through the use of modern language and modern terminological connotations. This thesis seeks to clarify material categorisation and preference in the past, by studying two different skeuomorphs; Aurignacian shell skeuomorphs made from ivory, and south Scandinavian metal dagger skeuomorphs made from flint. The focus of this thesis is on the raw material properties of the skeuomorphs presented above, and how these properties afford certain actions, limitations, and possibilities in the imitative act of past producers of material culture. A theoretical framework, with a focus on the notion of cultural spheres and how they are differently constructed through time and space, is applied. This framework is further supported by a reflexive methodology, as to be more critical of both the modern influences on past materials – and to be more self-aware of the terminology and linguistic connotations that can influence the research outcome in this thesis. Being self-critical of modern conceptions, influences, and terminology, through a reflexive methodology, enables a possibility to separate the modern cultural sphere from potential spheres in the past. In this thesis, this is concluded by the emergence of two pathways toward an alternate material categorisation and preference in the past within the skeuomorphic materials. The two material pathways are metaphorical materials and meaningful materials. A categorisation and preference of material in the past, based on these two material outlooks, would further indicate the value of variation in coexistence rather than a linear material progression in past material assemblages.