Assessing Cremation Variability in Jomon Hunter-Gatherers: An Integrated Macroscopic and Histological Approach

OSAKA Dan1*, NARA Takashi2, SAWADA Junmei2, FURUSAWA Yasushi2, KATO Motoyasu3, and YONEDA Minoru1

This study investigates variability in cremation practices among Jomon hunter-gatherers in prehistoric Japan through an integrated analysis of macroscopic features and bone histology. Distinguishing primary cremation of fleshed remains from secondary burning of dry bone remains is a persistent challenge, particularly in highly fragmented assemblages. We employ two complementary diagnostic indicators: curved transverse fractures (CTFs), which form during burning in the presence of soft tissue but vary in expression depending on anatomical location and burning conditions, and microscopic bioerosion, defined here as microstructural tunnelling caused by microbial activity during decomposition prior to burning. Human and faunal burnt remains from two Late Jomon sites were analysed to assess the relationship between these indicators and the condition of the body at the time of burning. Specimens exhibiting CTFs consistently lacked evidence of bioerosion and retained well-preserved microstructures, strongly supporting their interpretation as primary cremation. In contrast, specimens without CTFs display marked variability, with and without evidence of bioerosion, indicating the coexistence of multiple cremation pathways within the same assemblages. Rather than proposing a single classification, this study highlights the diversity of cremation practices and demonstrates that integrating macroscopic and histological evidence can provide a more refined reconstruction of cremation processes in prehistoric hunter-gatherer contexts. It further establishes an analytical framework for future comparative research on the transition to agricultural societies (Yayoi period) in Japan, offering new perspectives on potential continuities and transformations in mortuary practices.