Sophocles, in a written fragment of one of his works, ascribed the invention of knucklebones to the mythical figure Palamedes, who taught it to his Greek countrymen during the Trojan War.

Who made knuckle bones?

Their corners are either rounded or pointed so that they are unable to stand on one end. The precise origin of the game of knucklebones is unclear. It may have originated in either Egypt or Lydia. When exactly the Greeks and Romans adopted this game is also unknown.

What animal does knuckle bones come from?

Knuckle bones from different animal species can be used, but sheep and goat (Ovis and Capra) and pig (Sus domesticus) generally prevail. These bones are small and can easily be handled together. Groups of worked and non-modified knucklebones have been discovered in several archaeological contexts in Italy.