Aterian Paleolithic Arrowhead Genuine Stone Tool 130000–40000 Years Old Tafilalt Morocco Authentic Archaeological Specimen

Overview – Genuine Upper Palaeolithic Aterian Arrowhead from Morocco

This listing offers a 100% genuine Upper Palaeolithic Aterian Arrowhead, dated to approximately 130,000 – 40,000 years old, and recovered from the historically rich region of Tafilalt, Morocco. Aterian stone tools are iconic artefacts produced by early modern humans in North Africa, representing one of the most advanced cultural traditions of the Middle and Upper Palaeolithic. The photograph shows the exact arrowhead you will receive, carefully selected for its preservation, clear flaking patterns, and overall typological quality. Each artefact includes a Certificate of Authenticity, and a 1 cm scale cube in the images provides accurate size reference.

Cultural and Archaeological Context – The Aterian Tradition

The Aterian culture was a technological and cultural phase associated with Homo sapiens populations inhabiting North Africa during the Middle to Upper Palaeolithic. Characterised by tanged or stemmed tools, the Aterian industry is renowned for its sophisticated craftsmanship, including spear points, scrapers, tanged arrowheads, and cutting implements.

Dating between 130,000 and 40,000 years ago, this period overlaps with significant climatic oscillations, including humid Sahara phases and subsequent arid periods. Aterian peoples adapted to diverse environments, ranging from green savannah-like landscapes to desert-edge oases. Their tools reflect adaptability, skill, and the emergence of increasingly complex hunting strategies.

Lithic Technology – Craftsmanship of the Arrowhead

The arrowhead offered here is an excellent example of Aterian stone tool technology, displaying the following characteristics:
• Tanged base, a hallmark of the Aterian industry, used for hafting onto wooden shafts
• Bifacial flaking, with controlled retouch along the edges for shaping and sharpening
• High-quality chert or flint, the preferred material for its predictable fracture and sharp cutting edge
• Fine percussion and pressure flake scars, evidence of deliberate, skilled craftsmanship
• Symmetrical point geometry, ideal for use as a projectile or thrusting spear point

These morphological features demonstrate both practical function and stylistic aspects of Palaeolithic toolmaking. The presence of a formed tang suggests this tool was intended for mounting, reflecting advanced weapon construction and hunting techniques used by early humans in North Africa.

Geological and Locality Background – Tafilalt, Morocco

The Tafilalt region of southeastern Morocco is world famous for its archaeological and palaeoenvironmental significance. The area contains widespread Palaeolithic deposits, exposed through natural erosion and desert deflation. These arid landscapes were once much wetter, supporting wildlife and hominin populations who hunted, gathered, and crafted stone tools.

The raw materials used for Aterian tools, including flint and chert, occur naturally in the region, forming through sedimentary and diagenetic processes. These stones fracture conchoidally, allowing skilled toolmakers to produce sharp, durable weapon points. Over tens of thousands of years, many such tools became buried beneath desert sediments, later re-emerging through erosion in the modern age.

Morphology and Surface Characteristics

Your arrowhead displays well-preserved surface features typical of archaeological lithics:
• Weathered patina, often light brown, tan, or grey depending on burial conditions
• Fine edge retouch, still clearly visible despite its great age
• Natural mineral sheen, caused by long-term desert exposure
• Distinct tang formation, enabling secure hafting to a wooden shaft or handle
• Compact, durable structure, showing the resilience of the raw material

These features confirm the authenticity of the tool and its origins within the Aterian cultural assemblage.

Scientific and Collector Significance

Aterian artefacts are highly sought after by archaeologists, educators, and collectors due to their cultural relevance, age, and distinctive morphology. This arrowhead represents a direct physical link to early modern humans and their evolving hunting strategies, craftsmanship, and adaptation to changing environments during the Late Pleistocene.

For collectors, Aterian points offer a rare blend of aesthetics, history, and scientific importance. Each tool embodies tens of thousands of years of human innovation, survival, and presence across North Africa.

Product Details

• Artefact Type: Upper Palaeolithic Aterian Arrowhead
• Age: 130,000 – 40,000 years old
• Material: Chert/Flint
• Culture: Aterian
• Locality: Tafilalt, Morocco
• Authenticity: 100% genuine archaeological specimen with Certificate of Authenticity
• Photograph: Shows the exact piece you will receive
• Scale cube: 1 cm – see photos for full sizing

This authentic Aterian arrowhead is a remarkable artefact of early human history and an exceptional addition to any archaeological or prehistoric collection.