Pre-Historic Bow Finish Information

[Nashoba]

Chin Chookma Ikanama? (How are you friends)
I am currently working on an essay concerning wood protection and durability. The part I am on now is sort of an overview of the history of wood finishes. Being the toxophilaholic I am, I am using bow finishes to illustrate the early use of wood finishes. My question is this; does anyone have resources concerning archeological bow discoveries where a specific product (bear grease, beeswax, pine resin etc.) was identified? Any other pertinent information would be welcome. Thanks!   

[bubby]

halfeye is a friggin' encyclopedia when it comes to stuff like what you want to know

[IndianGuy]

Nashoba...Chickasaw or Choctaw? 

[Nashoba]

Chickasaw! My mom is half blooded.

[JackCrafty]

There is very little info on this, unfortunately.  What I can say is that the paint was often the only finish.  These paints were most often hide glue or blood mixed with pigments like charcoal, ocre, clay, etc..

I will look for more info.  I've wondered about this too but it's easy to take word-of-mouth information and call it good.  Archeological studies are best, of course, especially for what you are working on.

Burnishing was also a popular "finish".  I have not seen any evidence that burnishing was done in combination with oil or grease.  Again, I'll have to check to make sure.