Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of ochre processing and hide-working during the Early Bronze Age on Dhaskalio, a small Greek island in Cyclades. A new study suggests that craftspeople used stone tools and mineral pigments to soften, treat and possibly dye animal hides about 4,500 years ago. The findings provide the first direct evidence of leather production in a Greek Island of central Aegean during this period.
The research, led by Diego Capra, examined 18 stone artifacts recovered from the prehistoric settlement near Keros. Microscopic marks and mineral residues revealed how inhabitants processed pigments and worked animal skins.
Stone tools reveal ancient leatherworking techniques
Researchers examined grinding stones, handstones and a pestle recovered during excavations between 2016 and 2018. They used high-powered microscopes to identify scratches, polished surfaces and tiny pits left by repeated use. The team compared these marks with those produced during experiments involving mineral grinding and animal-hide processing. Several tools showed smooth, rounded polish and fine scratches consistent with rubbing and softening animal skins. Some contained red mineral residues, suggesting that workers added ochre during treatment.
The evidence points to different stages of leather production, including softening fresh and dried hides. Researchers also identified possible signs of tanning, a process that helps preserve animal skins. Two additional tools showed wear consistent with softening fresh hides without clear evidence of added minerals.
How Bronze Age craftspeople used ochre
Ochre is a natural pigment made from iron-rich minerals. It can produce red, yellow and brown colors depending on its composition. Researchers identified seven stone tools used to process minerals such as hematite and goethite into powder. Their surfaces contained scratches, worn areas and colored residues.
One limestone tool showed evidence of both pigment grinding and hide processing, suggesting that craftspeople reused equipment for different activities. Ochre may have helped preserve animal skins. Previous experiments have shown that the mineral can slow decomposition and assist in leather preparation.
Although prehistoric Aegean communities also used pigments for decoration, including on Cycladic marble figurines, researchers found no direct evidence of that practice at Dhaskalio.
Dhaskalio was an important Bronze Age craft center
Dhaskalio was connected to the nearby island of Keros during the Early Bronze Age, between approximately 2800 and 2200 B.C. The settlement featured terraced buildings constructed with imported marble. Previous archaeological discoveries on Dhaskalio revealed evidence of complex construction and metalworking.
Nearly all materials used at the settlement, including pottery, metals and stone, came from elsewhere. This suggests strong connections with other Aegean communities. While nearby Kavos on Keros hosted ritual gatherings, Dhaskalio supported specialized craft activities. The findings strengthen the interpretation of Dhaskalio as a center of production rather than solely a ceremonial site.
Leather rarely survives for thousands of years, making ancient hide-working difficult to identify. The discovery, therefore, fills an important gap in the archaeological record of the central Aegean. Researchers say further study could determine whether inhabitants used ochre for other purposes, including decoration or additional crafts.
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