Scoop Marks at Aswan Quarry: Physical Characteristics Described. Scoop marks have dimensions of approximately 40x40 cm Scoop marks have rounded and curved edges with slightly rough, uneven surfaces A narrow trench was carved around the obelisk averaging 75 cm wide
The Aswan scoop marks are ~40x40 cm with rounded, curved edges and slightly rough surfaces. A 75cm trench was carved around the obelisk, with vertical bands going down and curving underneath. But here's the puzzle: no scooped granite debris has ever been found at the site!
Key Facts
- Scoop marks have dimensions of approximately 40x40 cm
- Scoop marks have rounded and curved edges with slightly rough, uneven surfaces
- A narrow trench was carved around the obelisk averaging 75 cm wide
- Vertical scoop bands are about 40 cm wide and go down, then curve at the bottom and continue under the obelisk
- The rock underneath was cut from both sides, leaving only a narrow central portion attached to bedrock
- No scooped granite debris found at the site despite prevalence of scoop marks
Related site: Aswan, Quarry (north) — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: Scoop Marks on Unfinished Obelisk: What Tools were Used? How were they formed? by Curious Being