Tool Development, Ground Stone Tools

This relic is a ground stone tool from the Bronze Age. You might think it strange that a stone tool is exhibited in the Bronze Age Room. But during the Bronze Age, bronze wares were generally used only by the nobility, whilst peasants and commoners still had to make do with stone tools. In fact, the discovery of tools that were used for carving and working timber indicates that wooden tools were still produced in great quantities.

Some of these stone tools were made for use during rituals. This stone sword was originally just a large stone. Imagine how much delicate work was required to grind and shape both the sword and the hilt. This sword, which was excavated from a tomb, indicates the high status of the owner.

As bronze production increased, the contents of tombs gradually shifted from ground stone objects to bronze ware.