Elucidating the use of rhinoceros teeth by Neanderthals: Between experiments and the fossil record

The use of faunal remains as tools by Neanderthals has long intrigued researchers. These remains include mammal teeth, which are particularly durable and resistant. Nevertheless, there is a significant gap in taphonomic analysis of dental remains, and archaeological experiments with tooth tools remain scarce. Recent studies suggest that Paleolithic groups may have used rhinoceros teeth as tools. This work seeks to elucidate this question by applying a multidisciplinary approach, including taphonomic and traceological analyses using various microscopic imaging techniques. We applied this approach to several rhinoceros teeth from key archaeological, paleontological, and contemporary collections. For the first time, we also set up controlled archaeological experiments on rhinoceros teeth. The results shed light on the potential role of rhinoceros teeth as versatile tools during the Middle Paleolithic in Western Europe and contribute to our understanding of Neanderthals' adaptive subsistence strategies and material culture.