File:Steatite pic.jpg

Summary

http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=steatite++.gov&view=detail&id=2B1852BA783586E4EAF3F422626CB00F2C780C03&first=0&FORM=IDFRIR&adlt=strict Another significant innovation in the Late Prehistoric period is the use of steatite or soapstone bowls and clay pottery [Figure 12]. Steatite is a soft stone that outcrops naturally in spots along the Teton and Wind River Ranges. This material is soft enough to be carved by an elk antler or other stone tool, and can be hardened by fire and exposure to air. In other areas, such vessels were used for cooking and storage, which was probably also the case in Jackson Hole. As before, Late Prehistoric inhabitants of Jackson Hole also engaged in hunting and plant processing. The number of roasting pits found in the park reached its peak during this period

Copyright status:

This image is Public Domain and first published by The National Park Service

Source:

http://www.cr.nps.gov/history/online_books/grte2/hrs2a.htm