Trapezoids and Double Truncations in the Epigra Vettian Assemblages of Northeastern Italy

Trapezoids represent a significant category of tools among the innovative geometric implements in the lithic assemblages of European late glacial complexes, particularly those late Epigravettian industries from the Mediterranean region to the southern Ukrainian plain. The recen t recovery of several artifacts from two excavlllions in the Venetian Pre-Alps (northern Italy) prompted a large-scale examination of the chronological, and geographical distribution of trapezoids as well as the first study of their techno-morphological features. Results show an evident 'ariability in those morphological and dimensional parameters investigated and seem to suggest that the prepar-.ttion of different shapes of blanks to obtain microli ths might have occurred in the ambit of economical behaviors. Specifically, these economic choices involve an investment in the manufacture ofmicroliths and this is evident in the intensi"e retouch of the tools.