# name
Pigmented supports in the upper Palaeolithic: Unravelling origins and intentionality on red-pigmented support at the Lagar Velho rock shelter (Portugal)

# metadata.dc.description.abstract[].value
The ochre, a natural pigment, has been a significant element in prehistoric cultures, particularly during the
Palaeolithic, with various applications in artistic, ritual, and domestic contexts. This paper focuses on the red-
pigmented support found at the Lagar Velho rock shelter (Portugal) and seeks to elucidate its origin, the pro
cesses behind its pigmentation, and its intentionality. The limestone support was found in proximity to the
Lapedo child burial, dated to the Gravettian, prompting an investigation into its role and the nature of its
pigmentation. Detailed analysis, including visual examination, digital image enhancement, microscopic obser
vation, and Raman spectroscopy, revealed that the pigmentation primarily consists of haematite. The sequence of
events leading to the pigmentation on the limestone support involves sediment accumulation, surface abrasion,
and finally, the application of red colour. The “barcode”-like design on the support likely resulted from unin
tentional rubbing or contact with red pigment previously deposited in the shelter, potentially associated with the
nearby burial. The analyses carried out on this finding suggest that the red colouration was not a result of
deliberate artistic or symbolic behaviour but rather a passive process, either natural or anthropic, linked to the
block’s movement and its interaction with deposited red pigment.
In summary, the study underscores the importance of a comprehensive and well-grounded approach in
examining pigmented supports in Palaeolithic contexts. It demonstrates that understanding the nature and origin
of pigmentation involves not only analysing patterns but also considering the specific context and processes that
led to its deposition. The examination of the Lagar Velho limestone support serves as an example of how
taphonomic processes can influence the appearance of colouration in non-artistic contexts, challenging con
ventional interpretations of such finds in the European Upper Palaeolithic framew

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Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, 2025, vol. 61

# metadata.dc.rights[].value
cc-by (c) Daura Luján, Joan et al., 2025

# metadata.dc.source[].value
Articles publicats en revistes (Història i Arqueologia)

# metadata.dc.title[].value
Pigmented supports in the upper Palaeolithic: Unravelling origins and intentionality on red-pigmented support at the Lagar Velho rock shelter (Portugal)