Techniques de boisages dans les mines d'or gauloises du sud-ouest du Massif central

Abstract

Archaeological excavations of several reef gold mines from south-western Massif central, in Haute-Vienne and Dordogne, have enabled to discover wood propping, tracing back to Second Iron Age, perfectly preserved in situ in deep mining works filled up by watery sediments. In these underground works, different jointing and chocking techniques have been discovered. The excellent state of preservation of these props helps to study the cutting and shaping techniques of the wood pieces. Radiocarbon data and dendrochronology situate its setting between the end of the 3rd century and the end of the 1rst century BC. The varied clearing data obtained reveal props repairs and wood pieces reused, confirmed by old workings on some of the props. All the techniques observed show a good mastership of wood working : a traditional ability of the Gaulish people who used wood framework rather than stone.