The diversity evolution of sheep morphology in French zooarchaeological remains from the 9th to the 19th century: Analysis of pastoral strategy
Opale Robin|Benoît Clavel
Although the economic importance of sheep husbandry in Middle Ages, especially during development major cloth industries, and speculation animals for wool, is recognized, until now evolution forms on French mainland have not been subject investigations. The purpose our study, therefore, was to assess morphological diversity across eleven centuries, attempt reconstruct zootechnical practices used their effectiveness from zooarchaeological remains. In addition, a database created, with help numerous specialists, grouping 16,353 measured bones corresponding 59,801 distributed measurements 9th 19th centuries France. Our describe shape bred wool (through size or dimensions) wide territory using bone remains common methods tool, such as shoulder height, slenderness index, log index. work carried out within framework this study should be reproducible any type study. results reveal an morphologies according three stages, end Late Ages industrial era. first phase corresponds fairly homogeneous herds 9th–10th 12th–13th low forms: small stunted. We then witness important variety 13th–14th all dimensions, smallest largest. Many various emerged without impacting dimensions depth; overall, remained composed smaller individuals. Finally, 18th–19th there loss benefit primarily consisting larger dimensioned This can compared effect merinisation operating at modern period.
Journal of Archaeological Science|HAL (Le Centre pour la Communication Scientifique Directe)|HAL (Le Centre pour la Communication Scientifique Directe)