Functional interpretative approaches on shears at the end of the Iron Age and the beginning of the Roman Principate. The example of shears in the cemeteries of the Treveri

Abstract

Shears are often understood as multifunctional tools the exact purpose of which is difficult to define. However, shears can be interpreted as functional objects with shape and technical properties resulting from their intended application. It is therefore possible to classify these tools anew according to their most likely function. This Classification of the shears from the cemeteries of the Treveri was confirmed when the accompanying grave-goods were considered. In association with the other grave-goods the shears from the Treveran cemeteries are understandable both within technical and social history.