Development of the microlithic technology in the Early Upper Palaeolithic of Kostenki (European Russia)

Abstract

This article presents the results of the typological analysis of Early Upper Paleolithic non-geometric microliths from the Kostenki site cluster. A relationship between certain types of microlith and the age of different Kostenki sites was established. Based on stratigraphic correlation and radiocarbon dating, three chronological groups corresponding to three stratigraphic units are distinguished: a) the Lower Humic Bed, b) the level of the Campanian Ignimbrite tephra, and c) the upper part of the Upper Humic Bed. In all three groups, non-geometric microliths show similarities with Aurignacian sensu lato types and demonstrate some local features. In this study, criteria for the definition of some microlith types are reconsidered, and certain subtypes are distinguished for the first time. The suggested model of diachronic change of Early Upper Palaeolithic microlithic technologies at Kostenki allows comparison with contemporaneous sites in Southwestern France and Eastern Europe.