Middle and Late Bronze Age Metal Tools from the Aegean, Eastern ...

extensive literature on chisels, it is unnecessary to formulate new classifications, yet a
method for analyzing the chisel data over a wide geographical area must be established to
ascertain basic functional differences. This method must be based on size, specifically the
width of the cutting edge and the length of the chisel.
In order to recognize chisel groupings, the implements were divided into
categories based upon the cutting edge width: 0.5 cm and under for Size 1; 0.6 to 1.5 cm
for Size 2; 1.6 to 2.9 cm for Size 3; 3.0 to 4.9 cm for Size 4; and 5.0 cm and greater for
Size 5. Table 4.8 details the regional distribution of these different chisel sizes. 383
A
dense concentration of chisels falls under Sizes 1 and 2, meaning that blades with cutting
edge widths 1.5 cm and under were particularly in demand. Size 1 chisels mostly occur in
Anatolia, and are better characterized as “chisel-like” or “chisel bits” as opposed to full
chisels (see Anatolian chisel scatter plot in Fig. 4.10). Some Anatolian Size 1 chisels
have a pointed tang that could be inserted into a haft (Plates 4.18-19). These implements
are so small that they resemble interchangeable bits, like modern drill bits. Size 2 chisels
are also prominent in Anatolia, but occur frequently in other regions as well. The narrow
width of these implements varies little from the cutting edge to its butt end (Plate 4.20-1).
Generally, Size 2 chisel types may be referred to as narrow chisels, a description that
could also encompass some Size 3 chisels (Plates 4.22-3). Chisel Sizes 3, 4 and 5 are less
common than either Sizes 1 or 2. When chisels have cutting widths 3.0 cm and above
(Plates 4.24-5), they may resemble single axes or adzes and trunnion/lugged blades. The
ratios of length by width can help differentiate these tool types, as previously discussed
(Fig. 4.5a, b). Chisels with cutting edges greater than 5 cm are infrequent (Plate 4.26), for
implements of that size are routinely understood as axes or adzes.
383 The cutting widths of only 584 of the 843 chisels are known.
159