Richard Madgewick (Cardiff University, UK)

This paper examines the way in which the objectification of animal bodies can play an integral role in the construction of identity, using the site of Llanmaes, a later prehistoric midden in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, as a case study. The faunal assemblage at Llanmaes is unparalleled in comprising primarily bones of only one quarter of one species – namely the right forequarter of pigs. Although the assemblage is very poorly preserved, butchery evidence also showed very clear patterns with over half of all pig and medium sized vertebrae having been cleaved on, or close to the sagittal midline. These patterns are consistent throughout the accumulation, both spatially and temporally.

The strength of the faunal signature at Llanmaes is firmly indicative of highly regulated modes of treatment of certain classes of faunal remains. These prescribed practices are central to the re-conceptualisation of pig bodies, with the transition being from complete, living beings to separated and processed cultural resources. These objectified remains and the rigidly formalised, socially prescribed practices surrounding their treatment are particular to Llanmaes and as such are likely to be integral to the construction of identity for the whole community. As both the remains and the practices surrounding their objectification are implicit in the midden’s development, this symbolically significant accumulation provides a material embodiment and tangible emblem of the community’s identity.