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When the last remnant of the Weichsel glacier melted in northern Sweden, around 7000 BC, pioneer settlers entered virgin land, following their prey, which in turn followed the vegetation dispersion. Some of the settlers derived from the east and the northeast and spread from the Russian taiga, through Finland and into northern Sweden, the study area for this thesis. Some of the settlers derived from southwest Europe and spread through Denmark, into south Sweden and northwards. These two main flows of people moved in small groups over large areas, close to the ice margin and shared a lithic technology, but with some differences. These differences can be traced in the debris at archaeological sites, along with calcined animal bones. This thesis focuses on the calcined bones and the seemingly most important prey for the southern and eastern settlers respectively, and the changes that occurred during the time frame of 9000-4000 BC. This has been done by identifying Mesolithic sites with calcined bones, selecting bone samples from the assemblages, determining species and radiocarbon dating the samples. The species in focus are reindeer (Rangifer tarandus), elk (Alces alces), beaver (Castor fiber) and seal (Phoca sp.), mainly ringed seal (Phoca hispida), which are the largest and most common species found at the sites. To support the results, previously radiocarbon-dated calcined-bone samples and charcoal samples, found in connection with species-determined bones, are included. This study shows that the people moving in from the Russian taiga in the east hunted terrestrial mammals (reindeers and elks) in the beginning. They continued doing so, even when they reached the coast of the Baltic Sea, where the ringed seal lived at the time. Not until several thousands of years later were the first seal bones left at Mesolithic sites in northernmost Norrland. The people moving in from the south, on the other hand, hunted both terrestrial mammals and seal. Using an additional set

Two general lithic technological trends are observed in the Upper Paleolithic archaeological record of East Asia. One initially involved the production of large blades, then subsequently emphasized bladelet, and later microblade production. The other entailed an expedient, flake-based technology that does not seem to have changed much over time. The distribution of archaeological sites falling under these two categories is generally divided along an ecological boundary between the Eurasian Steppe to the north and the Summer Monsoon zone to the south. This dissertation details a research program aimed at diachronically comparing blank cutting edge efficiency between Upper Paleolithic assemblages within the Tolbor Valley in northern Mongolia and Shuidonggou 2 in northern China. Results from the Tolbor assemblages indicate an increase in blank cutting edge efficiency over time associated with small flakes, bladelets, and microblades. Results from Shuidonggou 2 indicate that cutting edge efficiency varied little over time, despite changes in raw material use. These findings reveal ecological and technological aspects of the resettling of East Asia by Homo sapiens following their eastward expansion into the region ca. 45,000 years ago.

Recycling was an activity carried out by ancient hunter-gatherer populations. It has been demonstrated by many studies on this matter. However, there are main issues in relation to it that are still under debate: what we call recycling, how we identify it, and what implications it has for the technoeconomic dynamics of these groups. In order to contribute to this topic, we present here the Neandertal flint materials from the stratigraphic unit viii of the El Salt rockshelter (Alcoi, Alacant, eastern Iberia). We have selected a series of artifacts exhibiting time-dependent postgenetic alterations (i.e. white patinas and thermal alteration) that affect previous technical intervention and, additionally, display subsequent anthropogenic actions that reveal an intermediate stage between the initial and the second use. The data obtained point to a principal relationship of recycling with mobility dynamics, and entail implications for Neandertal lithic technology and provisioning.

Through phylogenetic reconstruction this work  analyzes the  diversification of  lanceolate points of the South Central Andes   which began in the early Holocene and spanned the entire mid- Holocene. Based on a regional-scale data, we   discuss the links between the increasing mid-Holocene risk conditions, the patterns of diversification of point lineages, demographic change and animal resources consumption. We distinguish a first instance of greater diversity of points, a higher rate of innovation and less class longevity. These trends progressively stabilized, giving rise to a pattern of  less innovation, decreasing taxa diversity  and greater class longevity as well as an age-related extinction pattern. We show that as projectile points diversified,hunting efficiency increased along the mid-Holocene by the increased representation of  high-return fauna in the regional zooarchaeological record.  We suggest that this diversification of  lanceolate points was an adaptive evolutionary radiation which began with the increase in the rate of innovation for coping with the increasing risk of the beginning of mid-Holocene in the South Central Andes. From this we conclude that technological innovation was a prerequisite for the human specialization in camelid hunting and for the development of a highly economically efficient foraging strategy in the south Andean  highlands

New methodological approaches focused on studying the reduction and use-life of stone tools have emerged in recent years, enabling researchers to move beyond strict technical and technological characterizations and explore specific aspects of occupation dynamics and economic management of resources. Previous studies have shown the importance of reduction distributions of individual measurements rather than averaged values. In this sense, survival analysis, and more specifically Weibull distributions, are one of the main inferential tools used in reduction studies. However, the resolution of Weibull distribution obtained from different methods has not been tested experimentally. In this paper, we present an evaluation of some of the main methods used in the study of core reduction intensity, such as the Volumetric Reconstruction Method, the Scar Density Index, and the non-cortical surface percentage. Our results show 1) strong and positive correlations between these approaches and actual reduction intensity, 2) similar Weibull distributions for non-cortical surface percentage, Volumetric Reconstruction Method, and logarithmic transformation of Scar Density Index. In addition, 3) the results from each method show a similar intra-assemblage variation, with a high percentage of agreement between them. As a result, all the evaluated proposals are useful and reliable methods for estimating the degree of reduction. Finally, a workflow is proposed for approaching reduction in archaeological assemblages by integrating different methods in the same study.

Kjel Knutsson Symposium 15/6 2018.

What was it that made Homo sapiens such a successful species and the sole remaining hominin on the landscape? What enabled us to colonize the entire world and survive in novel or extreme environments? Some researchers argue the development of a new technology, called “microliths,” was a key adaptive strategy in our success and global spread. Benefits of these small tools are argued to include more efficient conversion of raw materials into usable stone tools and the creation of innovative and diverse tools that have been linked with the use of composite tools. Composite tools combine multiple components and are often linked to the spread of mechanically assisted projectile technology and hunting weapons. The appearance and spread of microliths is suggested to be part of a global trend of technological reorganization during the late Pleistocene (~126,000-11,700 years ago). However, these associations, and even definitions of “microliths,” are problematic. Definitions tend to be contextual and oscillate between broad considerations of any intentionally produced small flake and specific manifestations of small tools, such as backed geometric pieces and segments, small bladelets, or retouched blanks. This has complicated our understanding of the development, spread, and potential benefits of what is considered a pivotal technological innovation of our species. Rather than focusing on a typological definition of microliths, we must systematically address how small tools were made. By focusing on the technological system used to produce small tools in different contexts, we can understand how each system varied and whether technological systems for small tool production were convergent solutions that were reinvented or cultural knowledge transmitted within and between groups. Here, I employ technological analysis of stone tool assemblages to understand how systems of raw material provisioning and transport influence technological organization and individual systems of sma

Bipolar debitage has been documented in different chronocultural and geographical contexts. In this paper, we analyze the implications of this type of exploitation in a Middle Paleolithic context where it has rarely been recognized. The observation of the archaeological materials is combined with a geological characterization, which has made it possible to determine the qualities and original morphology of the exploited volumes. These aspects are linked to the type of exploitation carried out. These studies are also combined with experimentation, the results of which show the difficulty of identifying and evaluating this technology in the lithic assemblages.

This paper investigates core reduction intensity in the early Protoaurignacian lithic assemblage from Fumane Cave in northeastern Italy. Reduction intensity serves as a key tool to characterize blank selection strategies, raw material management, and the variability of knapping strategies throughout the reduction sequence by reconstructing the operatory field of core assemblages. Finally, it also aids in addressing the relationship between blades and bladelets, providing valuable insights into the behavioral and chrono-cultural significance of laminar productions within the Aurignacian technocomplex. To achieve these research goals, experimental work employing 3D scanning technology was conducted. This facilitated the comparison of different methods and variables for measuring reduction intensity, including the percentage of non-cortical surface, the Scar Density Index (SDI), and a novel adaptation of the Volumetric Reconstruction Method (VRM). Results demonstrate the effectiveness and potential of adapting the VRM for the study of reduction intensity in Upper Paleolithic laminar cores, and the provided R scripts and datasets will enable this method to be applied to other contexts with minimal need for modification to the workflow. Analysis of reduction intensity measures applied to the Protoaurignacian assemblage from Fumane Cave reveals slight variations based on factors such as the abundance and proximity of selected raw materials for blank production. Notably, the most prevalent raw material variety, the Maiolica, yields a higher number of less reduced cores, while reduction levels across all cores discarded at the site remain relatively high. The observed variability in the operatory field and the interrelation between blade and bladelet productions underscore the complexity and flexibility of Protoaurignacian behavior. This inherent complexity challenges any definitive separation between the operatory fields of blade and bladelet productions. These findings ar

The Aterian is a distinctive Middle Stone Age (MSA) techno-complex associated with anatomically modern humans and early evidence of symbolic behavior, dating from ~150 ka to 29 ka BP and occurring from the Mediterranean coast of North Africa to the central Sahara and from Atlantic Morocco to the Western Desert of Egypt. Despite their very long chronology and vast geographic distribution, Aterian lithic assemblages are often described as showing limited variation in techno-typological features and patterns of lithic raw material exploitation. These patterns are sometimes interpreted as indicators of low diversity and exceptional continuity of landscape use strategies. Yet the Aterian was produced during a period of continent-wide diversification of early Homo sapiens behaviors and cultural manifestations, evidence of the emerging behavioral plasticity thought to have enabled our species to spread to diverse and novel environments first within and eventually outside of Africa. Although some variation has been recognized for Aterian subsistence strategies, mostly based on associated faunas and site locations, this flexibility in adaptive behaviors is not clearly reflected in stone tool evidence. This dissertation systematically investigates variability of Aterian lithic assemblages at both the intra- and inter-site scales in order to explore the synchronic and diachronic diversity, or lack thereof, of landscape use patterns among North African MSA Homo sapiens. Specifically, variability is investigated among aspects of lithic assemblages theorized to be influenced by landscape use, including assemblage composition, fragmentation of reduction sequences, artifact reduction rates, and exploited lithic raw materials. The studied lithic assemblages derive from the Moroccan cave sites of Bizmoune, Rhafas, Dar es Soltan 1, and Mugharet el’Aliya. While the four sites are north of the Atlas Mountains, they encompass a range of geographical situations including littoral and inla

[EN] La Esparragosa is a Neolithic site located in the Bay of Cádiz. Its corresponds to a settlement with silos. It was excavated a few years ago by our team. We present an analysis of the lithic industry from this site of the IV th millennium B.C. We provide data on the documented siliceous raw materials, verifying the variety of flint and its possible origins. The technological study is carried out within the framework of the Analytical Logical System (SLA) and with Laplace’s classification. An important laminar registry is verified, with retouched tools of predominance of the abrupt mode. In the typologies, domestic tools and those linked to various productive activities are well represented. The functional analysis tests the link of artifacts associated with agricultural activities, but also with projectile functions and, above all, highlights the use of knives for the work and processing of fish., [ES] La Esparragosa es un yacimiento neolítico situado en la bahía de Cádiz. Corresponde a un poblado con campos de silos. Excavado hace unos años por nuestro equipo, presentamos un análisis de la industria lítica tallada del poblado del IV milenio a.C. Aportamos datos de las materias primas silíceas documentadas, comprobando la variedad de sílex y sus posibles procedencias. El estudio tecnológico se realiza con el Sistema Lógico Analítico (SLA) y con la clasificación de Laplace. Se comprueba un importante registro laminar, con utillajes retocados de predominio del modo abrupto. En tipología están bien representados los utillajes domésticos y los vinculados con diversas actividades productivas. El análisis funcional prueba la relación de artefactos asociados a actividades agrícolas, pero también con funciones de proyectiles y sobre todo destaca el uso de cuchillos para el trabajo y procesamiento del pescado.

Hotel California is part of a network of open-air Neanderthal sites located in the Sierra de Atapuerca (Burgos, Spain). In this study, we examine the technology of the lithic assemblages recovered from this site's archaeological levels 3 to 7, which are characterised by the use of local raw materials, non-hierarchical centripetal exploitation systems, systematic production of flakes and few retouched items. This type of expedient technology is repeated throughout the entire sequence, which spans Marine Isotope Stages (MIS) 3 to 4. Through a comparison with the technocomplexes and occupation histories of surrounding sites – including a re-evaluation of the published chronology for the nearby site of Fuente Mudarra, which is now dated exclusively to MIS 5 – we examine whether the detected pattern is applicable to the rest of the Atapuerca Mousterian record and if this expedient behaviour has equivalents in other sites in the region. Our findings show that the lithic procurement, exploitation and configuration strategies employed at the Sierra de Atapuerca open-air sites were constant over broad time periods spanning MIS 5 to 3, in contrast to the technological sequences observed at other nearby sites on the Northern Iberian Plateau. The recurrent settlement of these open-air Neanderthal sites over tens of thousands of years and the consistent use of expedient technologies during different occupation periods is likely attributable to the rich ecological context of the Sierra de Atapuerca environs.

In the context of the Western European Acheulean Project, this study aims to characterize Acheulean technology in Western Europe through the analysis of handaxes and cleavers from 10 key sites (Britain 4, France 4, and Spain 2) to acquire a regional view of the occupation. The historically different systems used to categorize and analyze the data have made it difficult to compare results. Here we apply a unified and simple method (Western European Acheulean Project) that combines the traditional technological and metrical analysis of assemblages containing handaxes and cleavers with an in-depth geometric morphometric approach using three-dimensional models. This approach allows us to achieve a regional interpretation that identifies innovations through time and shaping strategies across the area. Our findings indicate the existence of two main technological groups in the sampled record: 1) northwestern and central France and Britain, from MIS 17/16 to MIS 11, and 2) Atlantic edge (Atapuerca in Spain and Menez-Dregan in France), from MIS 12/11 to MIS 8. Based on our technological analysis, the shaping of handaxes and cleavers was developed through time as a continuum of accumulative actions, with longer and more complex shaping strategies over time. Shaping technology shows traditions of manufacture over both time and geographical areas, which suggest cultural diffusion. Our geometric morphometric analysis further helped to identify not only general trends but also local adaptations in handaxe forms. Based on our findings, there were no apparent sudden innovations, but rather the application and development of specific techniques to refine size and shape.

In the upper basin of the Guadiana River, especially in the sectors drained by its right-bank tributaries, the Bullaque and Becea rivers, important concentrations of Acheulean and Mousterian industries can be found in a superficial position. These industries have provided series containing tens of thousands of pieces. Deposits in stratigraphic position have also been identified, related to the fluvial terraces of the Guadiana and Jabalón rivers and some tributaries. Within the sector studied, in the province of Ciudad Real, the position of these deposits is related to alluvial fans developed on the slopes of the immediate reliefs. These fans, mainly composed of Lower and Middle Ordovician quartzite gravel, were eroded in their distal positions by the Bullaque and Becea rivers, forming very low terraces on which large concentrations of Acheulean and Mousterian lithic industry can be found. El Sotillo, the only known stratigraphic site in the area, was excavated in 2017–2019 and consists of several levels with Mousterian and Acheulean industry. We present the technological characteristics of the main Acheulean assemblage recognised at this site, for which numerical dates have been obtained placing its chronology in the second half of the Middle Pleistocene. The location of these sites, in surficial position and El Sotillo, allows us to recognise a territorial space with specific geographic characteristics and a very significant human impact., Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICINN)/FEDER, Junta de Castilla y León/FEDER, Xunta de Galicia, Australian Research Council, Junta de Castilla La Mancha, Ayuntamiento de Porzuna, Depto. de Geodinámica, Estratigrafía y Paleontología, Depto. de Prehistoria, Historia Antigua y Arqueología, Fac. de Ciencias Geológicas, Fac. de Geografía e Historia, TRUE, pub

Learning is a fundamental aspect of the human condition. It allows us to interact within a world of socially constructed meanings and to create individual and group identities (Jarvis 2012; Lave and Wenger 1991; Wenger 1998). My research investigates knowledge transmission during the Epipalaeolithic Period at the hunter-gatherer site of Kharaneh IV (≈20,000 BP) (Maher and MacDonald 2013) and argues that stone tool production (flintknapping) can be viewed as a practice that reflects normative rules guiding the interactions of flintknapping communities in the ancient past. Evidence of the practice can shed light on an ancient habitus related to learning and participating within a community of practice (Lave and Wenger 1991; Cole 1996; Weisner 2002; Rogoff 2003; Maynard and Greenfield 2006; Joyce 2008; Wallaert 2012; Takakura 2013). The study of education in archaeology primarily focuses on ceramics as it is an additive process where each step is identifiable through microscopic analyses. While these studies have proven useful for understanding how novices learned practices in the past, in most regions ceramics only extend back to about 8,000 years BP and studies on apprenticeship and learning rarely extend past the Bronze Age (Hasaki 2012). To examine a reductive technology like flintknapping one must take a different approach than previously established ceramics studies on apprenticeship (Gosselain 2000; Wallart 2012; Hasaki 2012). The waste products, debitage, are the basis for analysis rather than the final tool form as each removal of flint during the production process preserves prior removal scars and indicates how an individual piece was removed. The knowledge of where to find raw materials, how to ‘correctly’ reduce a blade core, and what constitutes a tool is circumscribed by the community (Ortner 2001; Joyce 2008; Pea and Cole 2019). Therefore, lithic artifacts may represent normative practices of flintknapping during the Epipalaeolithic. New materials or te

This article, aims to assess the historical importance represented by two iconic archaeological sites located in the municipality of Nueva Guinea, in the Autonomous Region of the South Caribbean Coast (RACCS) of Nicaragua, these being the sites known as “Los Ranchitos” and “La Letra”. Some interpretations are provided on the constituent elements of these sites, the relevance of their location, functionality and their links with surrounding regions. Of vital importance were the field visits at different times, the detailed documentation and the analysis of the spatial distribution of the immovable archaeological evidence, in addition to the associated materiality in each of the sites referred to there are several archaeological collections in the municipality of Nueva Guinea, most of them from fortuitous fi nds in the sites referred to above, so they have been considered of utmost importance to understand social and economic aspects of the ancient populations that occupied these territories., Este artículo, tiene como objetivo valorar la importancia histórica que representan dos sitios arqueológicos icónicos emplazados en el municipio de Nueva Guinea, en la Región Autónoma de la Costa Caribe Sur (RACCS) de Nicaragua, siendo estos, los sitios conocidos como “Los Ranchitos” y “La Letra”. Se brindan algunas interpretaciones sobre los elementos constitutivos de estos sitios, la relevancia de su emplazamiento, funcionalidad y sus vínculos con regiones aledañas. Fueron de vital importancia las visitas de campo en diferentes momentos, la documentación detallada y el análisis de la distribución espacial de las evidencias arqueológicas inmuebles, además de la materialidad asociada en cada uno de los sitios referidos. Existen diversas colecciones arqueológicas en el municipio de Nueva Guinea, la mayoría de ellas procedentes de hallazgos fortuitos en los sitios referidos anteriormente, por ello se han considerado de suma importancia para comprender aspectos sociales y económicos de las poblaciones antiguas que ocuparon estos territorios.

The Quina Mousterian is one of the well-defined Middle Paleolithic techno-complexes. Despite the pivotal research carried out in south-western France, the presence of this techno-complex across the rest of Europe is still poorly documented. Here we apply a techno-functional approach, combining technological and use-wear analyses, for reconstructing lithic core-reduction, tool-reduction, and tool use at De Nadale Cave, a single-layered Mousterian site with Quina features located in northern Italy and dated to the early MIS 4. Our results indicate that the flexible core reduction strategies identified at De Nadale show some similarities with the Quina knapping method, in addition to the adoption of centripetal methods on single surfaces. Variations of this scheme identified at De Nadale are the exploitation of lateral and narrow fronts which are aimed to the production of elongated, small blanks. A parallel, ramified reduction is applied to limace cores and Quina or demi-Quina scrapers having diversified purpose (mixed matrix). These blanks are exploited as tools and cores-on-flakes from which thinner, usable flakes or bladelets are detached. The use-wear identified on both scrapers and reaffutage flakes further confirm this behavior, demonstrating the use of both tools, albeit for different tasks (i.e., scraping and cutting). We discuss the ecological implications of this behavior within the Quina Mousterian. The high frequency of retouched tools and Quina or demi-Quina scrapers seems to accompany the highly mobile human groups associated with this techno complex and their seasonally organized subsistence strategies. Finally, by combining available multidisciplinary data on paleoenvironment, subsistence, and chronology, we were able to embed the neanderthal settlement of De Nadale in a regional and Western European frame, underlining the importance of the Quina Mousterian in Western Eurasia between MIS 4 and early MIS 3.

The exact strategies and technologies underlying Neanderthal hunting events remain open for debate with lithic points being sparse across the European Middle Palaeolithic. An exception is the Neronian entity in southeast France, defined by ventrally retouched Soyons points. This study contextualises one of the largest Neronian assemblages, layer 1 at Abri du Maras. Our lithic analyses focussed on attributes described as indicative of projectile use or hafting to contextualise the morphometric and technological characteristics of the pointed implements at an assemblage level. We found that retouched points were made on a variety of blank types (including Levallois, laminar and discoidal flaking techniques) and ventral retouch is present across different artefact types (including points, scrapers and denticulates). Next, these lithic data were compared to similar typo-technological data recorded on a sample from the recently excavated and well-contextualised point-rich layer 4.1 of Abri du Maras (MIS-3). Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry (ZooMS) was applied to 280 faunal remains from layer 1 and indicated significant proportions of equids, bovids, cervids and reindeer. Carnivore remains and carnivore modifications are absent, while human bone surface modifications are present across a variety of species. Five bones had sufficient collagen for radiocarbon dating but returned dates younger than expected (ca. 41-31 ka cal BP). Finally, we place Abri du Maras layer 1 in its broader regional context and discuss its relation to other Neronian assemblages and more general problematics inherent to studying material from old excavations.

The ability of early hominins to overcome the constraints imposed by the characteristics of raw materials used for stone tool production is a key topic on the discussion about the evolution of hominin cognitive capabilities and technical behaviours. Thus, technological variability has been the centrepiece on this debate. However, the variability of lithic assemblages cannot be correctly interpreted without understanding site occupational models and function and considering that individual tools represent specific discard moments in a continuous reduction process. In Europe, the earliest technological record is represented by the scarce and scattered Mode 1 technologies, often deriving from occasional occupations or restricted activity areas yielding unrepresentative assemblages. In this paper, we approach the technological behaviours exhibited by Lower Palaeolithic hominins from the subunit TD6.2 of the Gran Dolina site (Atapuerca, Burgos) by including the perspective of reduction intensity studies on the analysis of technological variability. Gran Dolina TD6.2 is a unique and extremely significant archaeological context, as it represents the oldest multi-layered unit of domestic hominin occupations in the Early Pleistocene of Europe. We use the Volumetric Reconstruction Method (VRM) to estimate the original volume of the blanks and quantify the reduction intensity of each core individually to characterise the reduction distribution patterns using Weibull probability distribution functions. Our results suggest differential raw material management in terms of reduction intensity, according to the characteristics of each lithology. This could reflect a solid understanding of raw material qualities and a certain degree of planning. Altogether, the continuity between knapping strategies through reduction denotes constant adaptation to raw material constraints as well as particular knapping conditions, rather than specific compartmentalised mental schemes. In conclusion

The site of Kotlina was discovered in 2009 during a large archaeology prospection project of Baranya in NE Croatia. Systematic archaeological research of the site was initiated in 2018 and the project “Kotlina, the prehistoric site” encompassed non-invasive field survey and excavations. Until today, the area covering approximately 150 m2 was excavated, revealing diverse archaeological structures: post holes, rubbish pits and graves. The portable archaeological finds were rich and diverse and consist of pottery sherds, animal bones, bone artefacts, chipped stone artefacts, polished and abrasive stone artefacts as well as one bead made from mollusc shell. Also, one very small fragment of copper and a large quantity of obsidian tools were discovered during the excavations. Portable archaeological finds and absolute dates show that the site can be attributed to the Late Neolithic Lengyel culture. In this paper, the results of the analysis of flint, stone and bone artefacts using variety of techniques that focus on the raw materials selection, technology and typology will be presented. Both local and imported raw materials were used, thus showing a complex pattern of raw material acquisition and management. The study of archaeological implements provided important information about the Lengyel communities located to the south of the Drava River. It will be very interesting to compare these data with other Lengyel sites in the north.

The Quina Mousterian is one of the well-defined Middle Paleolithic techno-complexes. Despite the pivotal research carried out in south-western France, the presence of this techno-complex across the rest of Europe is still poorly documented. Here we apply a techno-functional approach, combining technological and use-wear analyses, for reconstructing lithic corereduction, tool-reduction, and tool use at De Nadale Cave, a single-layered Mousterian site with Quina features located in northern Italy and dated to the early MIS 4. Our results indicate that the flexible core reduction strategies identified at De Nadale show some similarities with the Quina knapping method, in addition to the adoption of centripetal methods on single surfaces. Variations of this scheme identified at De Nadale are the exploitation of lateral and narrow fronts which are aimed to the production of elongated, small blanks. A parallel, ramified reduction is applied to limace cores and Quina or demiQuina scrapers having diversified purpose (mixed matrix). These blanks are exploited as tools and cores-on-flakes from which thinner, usable flakes or bladelets are detached. The use-wear identified on both scrapers and reaffutage flakes further confirm this behavior, demonstrating the use of both tools, albeit for different tasks (i.e., scraping and cutting). We discuss the ecological implications of this behavior within the Quina Mousterian. The high frequency of retouched tools and Quina or demi-Quina scrapers seems to accompany the highly mobile human groups associated with this techno complex and their seasonally organized subsistence strategies. Finally, by combining available multidisciplinary data on paleoenvironment, subsistence, and chronology, we were able to embed the neanderthal settlement of D

Population genetic studies often overlook the evidence for variability and change in past material culture. Here, the authors use a Mesolithic example to demonstrate the importance of integrating archaeological evidence into the interpretation of the Scandinavian hunter-gatherer genetic group. Genetic studies conclude that this group resulted from two single-event dispersals into Scandinavia before 7500 BC. Archaeological evidence, however, shows at least six immigration events pre-dating the earliest DNA, and that the first incoming groups arrived in Scandinavia before 9000 BC. The findings underline the importance of conducting careful archaeological analysis of prehistoric human dispersal in tandem with the study of ancient population genomics.

The dispersal processes of anatomically modern humans in Asia during the late Middle to early Upper Paleolithic periods have been a focus of intensive research in recent years through interdisciplinary approaches including genetic, paleoanthropological, and archeological studies. However, sparse datasets, often only available from limited time-space contexts have not produced a satisfactory picture of the vast geographic extension of this continent. This study investigated how the chrono-spatial patterning of lithic technological records, which are widely available across Asia, might contribute to our better understanding of the population dynamics in this period. The study is based on a large database (PaleoAsiaDB) recently developed by the authors to accommodate the relevant datasets, including geographical coordinates of each site and available radiometric dates, for the Middle and Upper Paleolithic periods in Asia. Each of the 895 lithic assemblages was characterized in terms of the presence/absence of 24 lithic modes/submodes that were adapted from the work of John Shea to fit our research objective. The dataset was analyzed using exploratory statistical methods, including principal component analysis. The results revealed marked spatiotemporal patterns in technological variability from the late Middle to early Upper Paleolithic periods. Some can be interpreted as a result of modern human dispersal, whereas others are better explained from ecological and other perspectives rather than authorships. Although this study has obvious limitations due to its reliance on the information sourced from the literature, it provides a global synthesis of lithic variability in the crucial period of the dispersals of modern humans on a continental scale for the first time. The results serve as a guide to be tested with evidence from other research strategies, such as genetics and fossil studies.

Se analizan tecno-tipológicamente las industrias líticas, mayoritariamente elaboradas sobre cuarcitas, del yacimiento paleolítico al aire libre de Tarazona III (2479 piezas líticas), formando parte de la Secuencia Paleolítica del Guadalquivir, que abarca el final del Pleistoceno Medio e inicios del Pleistoceno Superior (129 ka y <104 ka). Se identifican las cadenas operativas del yacimiento, desde la selección de materias primas hasta la fabricación de los útiles con percutor duro. Son cadenas dirigidas especialmente a la obtención de pequeñas lascas (<5 cm), lo que refuerza la selección del tamaño del canto rodado, con patrones de reducción de núcleos elementales, buena representación de los centrípetos y baja presencia de talla Levallois. La serie de N3 es muy equilibrada y completa, y relativamente completas las de N1 y N2, lo que sugiere o bien la preconfiguración de las cadenas operativas en otros lugares cercanos y el transporte de los productos de talla al yacimiento; o, en N1, el desplazamiento hidro-geomorfológico de las piezas de dimensiones más reducidas. La proporción útiles lasca/lasca es del 24% (N2) y 34.7% (N3), esto es, en los niveles posteriores a 104 ka BP. Esta proporción, junto a la baja variabilidad de los tipos sobre lasca, la exigua o nula presencia de macroútiles, define la industria de Tarazona III como uno de los yacimientos representativos del Paleolítico Medio Antiguo (PMA) del valle del Guadalquivir., Techno-typologically lithic industries from the open-air Palaeolithic site of Tarazona III (2479 lithic pieces), from the last Middle Pleistocene and beginnings of the Upper Pleistocene (129 ka and <104 ka), mostly elaborated on quarzites, are studied as part of the Guadalquivir Palaeolithic Sequence. The operational chains of this archaeological site are identified, from the raw material selection to tool fabrication with hard hammer. They are chains specially directed to obtain small flakes (<5 cm) what strengthens size selection of the pebbles, with patterns of reduction of elemental cores, a good centripetal representation and poor Levallois presence. The N3 series is highly balanced and complete; and relatively complete the N1 and N2 which suggest either a preconfiguration of the operational chains in other nearby locations and the transport of knapping production towards the archaeological site; or, in the N1, the hydro-geomorphologic shifting of the smallest pieces. The tools flake/flake ratio is 24% (N2) and 34.7% (N3), that is, in its most recent levels following at 104 ka BP. This proportion along with a low variability of types on flakes, an exiguous or null presence of large tools, define the industry of Tarazona III, one of the most representative archaeological sites from the Ancient Middle Palaeolithic (AMP) in the Guadalquivir valley.

Although prehistoric technologies are sometimes perceived as being purely practical and ergonomic, they reflect multiple aspects of the cultural and social relations of a given community. One of the theoretical frameworks for studying technologies is the notion of practical and prestigious technologies, where practical technologies are used to solve basic needs, such as acquiring food, making of shelter, while prestigious technologies are used to solve a social problem, to negotiate and display power and prestige, etc. In this paper, we will analyse some of the aspects of the lithic and osseous technologies in the Late Neolithic Vinča culture in the central Balkan area, with particular focus on rare, exotic, luxurious raw materials: marine shells and lithic raw materials such as marble, obsidian, etc. Beside their exotic origin, their technological traits and life biographies (intensity and duration of use, instances or repair, modes of discard, etc.) suggest these were valued raw materials. The distribution, diversity and frequency of these items vary considerably from site to site, showing that only limited number of settlements and individuals had access to them. The site of Vinča-Belo Brdo particularly stands out among other Vinča culture settlements by diversity and frequency of items made from luxurious raw materials, but there are also some other sites that yielded interesting artefacts, such as the site of Pločnik, where several ornaments made from marine shells were discovered, along with some other less frequently encountered lithic raw materials. This shows that there were differences in economy between different settlements, but also in their importance and wealth, and presumably status. However, at present state it is difficult to assess whether prestigious status was held by individuals, smaller (perhaps family) group or larger groups.

Lithic and osseous industries represent very important technologies among Neolithic communities; they were principal raw materials for production of everyday tools, used also for decorative and other non-utilitarian objects. However, current archaeological practice in majority of projects is to sort portable finds according to their raw material and to study them separately, and this is why wider studies of technological systems are very rare. In this paper, we will explore mutual relations and connections of the ground and abrasive stone and osseous technologies within the Late Neolithic Vinča culture in the central Balkan area (with particular focus on the assemblages from the sites of Vinča-Belo Brdo and Pločnik). Ground and abrasive stone tools were used for production of osseous artefacts; in fact, the abundance of abrasive stone tools is closely linked with the osseous technology, since abrasion was widely used technique for manufacturing and especially for repair of osseous tools. Osseous raw materials were, in turn, used for production of handles and hafts for stone axes, adzes, chisels, etc. There are multiple other aspects of mutual connection and inter-dependence: tool kits for certain activities and craft include both lithic and bone tools for diverse stages of production (for example, woodworking); there are cases of skeuomorphism – morphologically identical or similar artefacts produced from both lithic and osseous tools, such as small chisels, axes, etc. Tight connections between these two technologies show that traditions and innovations in one technology cannot be understood without the studies of the other, and that studies of technological systems are very much needed for comprehensive studies of prehistoric economy and craft production.

The migrations of Homo sapiens from the Levant to Europe during the Early Upper Paleolithic (EUP), and the routes they took have been the focus of archaeological and paleoanthropological research in Europe for over a century. Paleoanthropological, genetic and archaeological data confirm that the Balkans served as an important transit zone for humans. It is thought that H. sapiens used two major routes that run through the Balkans to move into Central and Western Europe: a coastal route along the Mediterranean Sea and an interior route along the Danube. Interestingly, much of the evidence for the presence of people along these migration routes, particularly along the Danube Corridor in the Central Balkans and the Republic of Serbia consists of short-term, low density occupations. The lack of dense EUP sites in Serbia and the Central Balkans also runs counter to the hypothesis that the Balkans would be a preferred settlement location for humans due to its role as a refugium for plant and animal species during glacial episodes, and research describing it as a biodiversity hotspot.This dissertation explores settlement dynamics during the EUP in the Central Balkans, particularly Serbia. Using results from surface surveys conducted in the Western Morava River Valley (WMV) in the central part of the country, I examine whether the surface record provides additional evidence for the presence of EUP groups in Serbia. The presence of EUP material found on the surface in the WMV would indicate that the limited evidence for EUP settlement in Serbia may stem from research biases which emphasize excavating cave sites over open-air settings. The surface surveys in the WMV recovered Paleolithic artifacts, especially from the Middle Paleolithic, but failed to find any EUP type fossils. These results show the sparsity of EUP sites in Serbia is not explained by a lack of Paleolithic research in open-air settings. I then use previously published lithic density data from Paleolithic arch

This paper presents the limestone reduction sequences documented in levels M and Ob at Abric Romaní from a technological point of view. At level M, a recurrent knapping system has been identified, resulting in the frequency of pseudo-Levallois blanks. At archaeolevel Ob, the presence of Levallois methods are observed in association with this knapping system. In both cases, retouched tools are rare and dominated by notches and denticulates. Although it is not well-known the degree of similarity and difference between the two levels in relation to occupational patterns is not well understood, Neanderthals employed more opportunistic knapping strategies, investing less time and energy in the procurement of raw materials including for chert. In level Ob, although limestone is still collected in the local fluvial deposits, differences in raw material procurement have been identified for chert. Results show the plasticity and versality that Neanderthals had and how they took advantage of the different abiotic resources they had around them. In this paper, we discuss the limestone technology at Abric Romaní in the context of the Iberian Peninsula.

The spread and development of the Indus Valley Civilisation, also known as the Harappan civilisation, one of the oldest civilisations of the world, is still an enigma. Indus Valley Civilisation was spread over modern day India and Pakistan. The civilisation has been divided into three phases, Early or Pre-Harappan, Mature or Urban Harappan and Post- or Late Harappan. The Urban phase is very well studied and understood. However, this phase is the culmination of a process that started much earlier. A lot of effort during recent years has led to new discoveries and clues regarding the interactions during the Early Harappan period between now politically divided areas. Unfortunately, this struggle to understand the spread of Early Harappan cultural traits between these distinct regions is one on-going and far from over. Explorations and subsequent excavations at the site of Juna Khatiya, situated in Kachchh district of Gujarat, India have brought to light noteworthy evidence of the Early Harappan period in terms of artefacts and burials. Other than the ubiquitous pottery, these indications include a lithic blade industry comprising of various types of blades, various types of scrapers, points and associated lithic debitage. The tools are made out of locally available raw material (mostly chalcedony). However, the discovery of a few blades of chert imported from the Rohri hills (situated about 500 km as-the-crow-flies from Gujarat) in modern Pakistan is important. Rohri chert blades are significant since they are very distinct and easily identifiable. The wide distribution of standardised Rohri chert blades is also often regarded as a testimony to the Harappan efficiency in long distance trade and craft production. The technique used in the manufacturing of these blades is known as the crested guiding ridge, a technique not observed in Gujarat before this contact between Sindh (in modern Pakistan) and Gujarat (in modern India) developed. This paper highlights the contrib

This paper presents the limestone reduction sequences documented in levels M and Ob at Abric Romani from a technological point of view. At level M, a recurrent knapping system has been identified, resulting in the frequency of pseudo-Levallois blanks. At archaeolevel Ob, the presence of Levallois methods are observed in association with this knapping system. In both cases, retouched tools are rare and dominated by notches and denticulates. Although it is not well-known the degree of similarity and difference between the two levels in relation to occupational patterns is not well understood, Neanderthals employed more opportunistic knapping strategies, investing less time and energy in the procurement of raw materials including for chert. In level Ob, although limestone is still collected in the local fluvial deposits, differences in raw material procurement have been identified for chert. Results show the plasticity and versality that Neanderthals had and how they took advantage of the different abiotic resources they had around them. In this paper, we discuss the limestone technology at Abric Romani in the context of the Iberian Peninsula.

In this manuscript, we present the first systematic refitting results of the small-scale Middle Pleistocene (MIS11) rock shelter site of La Cansaladeta. The lithic materials that have been recovered from the archaeological levels E and J were the main study materials. These levels were investigated regarding spatial pattern analysis and analyzed with auxiliary methods such as quantitative density mapping demonstration and technological analysis of the lithic clusters. Thus, the spatial patterns of the two levels were compared and discussed, in terms of connections, clusters, and movement of the lithic elements. Undoubtedly, the well preservation of the archaeological levels offered a great opportunity for the interpretation of the spatial patterns in a high-resolution perspective. La Cansaladeta has not been paid attention adequately so far may be due to the small dimension of the excavation surface or to the scarcity of faunal record. Our results show that small-scale sites without long-distance refit/conjoin connections can provide significant spatial information. Indeed, if the sites have very well-preserved archaeological levels, the absence of long connections can be supported by the auxiliary methods.

The purpose of this thesis is to investigate different scales of mobility and social networks in Southern Scandinavia around 7000 BC. An essential basis for this work is the hypothesis that the conical core pressure blade technology, a specific method for producing lithic blades, reached Scandinavia from the east. The process has been discussed and verified in several earlier studies. The study is based on investigations of lithic material and bone tools, as well as human skeletal remains; a multidisciplinary strategy has been applied, which combines technological analyzes of archaeological material with isotope analyzes of human teeth. Materials and data have been collected from a total of 111 sites located mainly in Scandinavia, but also in Finland, the Baltic countries and Russia. The Mesolithic site Norje Sunnansund in Blekinge, southern Sweden is in focus. Analyzes of the chaîne opératoire of lithic and osseous production make it possible to study technological processes as the transmission of culturally conditioned patterns; these patterns underlie the formative principles of each technology complex. By identifying specific traditional knowledge built into the material process, it becomes possible to define prehistoric human traditions and thereby study human interactions and migrations between geographical regions. The analyzes of strontium isotopes in human teeth from Norje Sunnansund enables an additional individual provenancing since the isotopes reflect a geographical-geological variation. The study provides a higher resolution of the arrival and spreading of the pressure blade technology from the northeast. It also strengthens the picture of a Mesolithic society in Southern Scandinavia based on geographically extensive social networks. An increased regionalization and territorialization has previously been proposed for western Scandinavia around 8800-7500 BC. The study confirms that during this period the population seem to consist of several subgroups r

This paper is divided into three sections. The first section describes the historiographic evolution of the study of prehistoric lithic raw materials in the Basque Crossroads (in the north of the Iberian Peninsula) during the last three decades. The second section explains the currently available information about geological outcrops of flint in the eastern end of the Cantabrian Mountain range (the Basque-Cantabrian Basin), the upper Ebro valley and both sides of the western Pyrenees, in the central part of the northern Iberian Peninsula, as that was the main raw material used by hunter-gatherer groups in the Middle and Upper Palaeolithic. Finally, the last section describes the way in which progress in both aspects of research have enabled the introduction of new concepts and perspectives in the reconstruction of the social and economic dynamics of Palaeolithic hunter-gatherers. This has given rise to an innovative methodology that is able to address and solve important issues, particularly regarding mobility and territoriality patterns of those human groups, allowing the proposal of mobility and territoriality models that, while they will not match exactly the systems used by Upper Palaeolithic communities, represent significant progress in understanding the social and economic dynamics of hunter-gatherer groups.

What happened at the transition between late Pleistocene and early Holocene in Italy and the Western Balkans remains up to now an unresolved question. While in recent years, research has been conducted in several re-gions, it is still difficult to propose a synthetic model for the changes that occurred in material cultures during this period. Multiple causes may explain this, but the apparent diversity of scenarios illustrated by each region seems to be the most explanatory. Terms such as terminal or final Epigravettian, Epipaleolithic, Romanelian and Sauveterrian, used in certain contexts, do not have a generally accepted definition. Some of these terms have been criticized and, at least, their definition should be reevaluated in accordance with modern methodological norms. Nevertheless, they indicate an actual diversity of regional and chronological expressions that we should describe precisely and integrate into a comprehensive model for the changes that occurred in this critical phase of the Late Upper Paleolithic. On a global scale, it has been argued that in contrast to what has been described in Western Europe for example, no discontinuity between the end of the Epigravettian and the first Mesolithic is evident. To better understand this period and its dynamics, it is necessary to initiate a hierarchical analysis of the elements of unit and variability across time and among the different regions. In order do to so, it is necessary to engage (1) a critical review of the available data and (2) a comparative technological analysis of different assemblages. This paper is a first step in this direction. We focus especially on the current study of two assemblages from Italy and the Western Balkans: grotta della Continenza (Central Italy) and Medena Stijena (Montenegro). We also include published data from the recent study of the sequence of grotta del Cavallo (Southern Italy). To sum up, we discuss the chronological and geographical variability in Italy and the Wes

Lithic technology is an uncommon research tool for investigating the Neolithic lithic industries of northern Italy. In fact, our knowledge about the lithic industries of this period is mainly related to typological descriptions. The technological study of these fittings found in the Lugo di Grezzana (VR) site highlights the usefulness of this approach and provides evidence to detect technical skills and socio-economic relationships among the early Neolithic groups.

The Atapuerca localities present evidence of a long series of hominin occupations from the Early Pleistocene onward and are a key site for understanding the continuity and discontinuity of Western European technological and settlement dynamics. The TD10 unit from Gran Dolina is located in the upper part of the sequence and divided into four lithostratigraphic subunits (TD10.4 to TD10.1, from bottom to top) dated between ca. 450 ka and ca. 250 ka (Marine Isotope Stage 11 to Marine Isotope Stage 8). The technological analysis of the lithic assemblages belonging to the TD10.1 sequence aims to determine the trends among its archeological levels and check its relation to late Middle Pleistocene technological evolution and site functionality. Archeostratigraphic studies have identified several occupation events within its approximately 1.5 m of thickness, whose artifact densities and occupational models differ. However, no remarkable technical differences have been observed among them. Lithic assemblages from those events show more evolved features than other Atapuerca Mode 2 assemblages. These changes are reflected in the selective raw material management strategies; more hierarchized and predetermined reduction methods; and the progressive decrease of large cutting tools in the lithic assemblages with respect to flake tools, the latter defined by a greater typological diversification. These technological changes did not lead to a clear break with respect to previous technological models and were accompanied by other sporadic but significant changes in subsistence and behavioral strategies (bone tools and retouchers; lithic recycling, and so on), which were consolidated during the Middle Paleolithic. Hence, the archeological record from the TD10.1 subunit of Gran Dolina reflects a local stratigraphic transition from Mode 2 to Mode 3 technocomplexes, paralleling that observed in other sites in southwestern Europe.

Nasera Rockshelter hosts a highly continuous sedimentary record, containing a wide array of archaeological remains from Middle Stone Age, Later Stone Age and Pastoralist occupations. Excavated by L. Leakey and M. Mehlman, geological studies carried out by R. Hay included granulometric and general mineralogical analyses but lacked individualized, detailed description and interpretation of each of the 25 levels exposed. This study presents updated detailed geological descriptions and interpretations of 17 levels exposed during excavations in 2018.

Knowing to what extent lithic cores have been reduced through knapping is an important step toward understanding the technological variability of lithic assemblages and disentangling the formation processes of archaeological sites. In addition, it is a good complement to more developed studies of reduction intensity in retouched tools and provides information on raw material management or site occupation dynamics. This paper presents a new methodology for estimating the intensity of reduction in cores and tools on cobbles, the Volumetric Reconstruction Method (VRM). It is based on a correction of the dimensions (length, width, and thickness) of each core from an assemblage. The median values of thickness and platform thickness of the assemblage's flakes are used as corrections for the cores' original dimensions, after its diacritic analysis. Then, based on these new dimensions, the volume or mass of the original blank are reconstructed using the ellipsoid volume formula. The accuracy of this method was experimentally tested, reproducing a variety of possible archaeological scenarios. The experimental results demonstrate a high inferential potential of the VRM, both in estimating the original volume or mass of the original blanks and in inferring the individual percentage of reduction for each core. The results of random resampling demonstrate the applicability of VRM to not size-biased archaeological contexts.

Hafting is an important part of lithic technology that can increase our understanding of socioeconomic behavior in the past. In this article, we develop a holistic approach to studying hafting by using the concept of curation within a broader assessment of lithic technological organization in early villages. Early villages were loci of socioeconomic transformation as part of the shift from mobile foraging to more sedentary cultivation lifeways. We suggest that an examination of hafting can provide new insights into how early villagers negotiated technological requirements, economic decision making, and social interactions in these novel contexts. As a case study, we develop a curation index and apply it to an archaeological context of hafted and unhafted pointed tools from the early Neolithic village of Dhra’, Jordan. This curation index allows for a discussion of the technological, economic, and social dimensions of hafting strategies at Dhra’. The presence of multiple hafting traditions within early Neolithic villages of Southwest Asia is evidence of persistent social segmentation despite food storage and ritual practices that emphasized communal integration. Through the lens of lithic technological organization, we demonstrate that hafting and curation patterns can increase our understanding of technological, economic, and social strategies in early villages.

El objetivo de este artículo es la puesta en valor de las diferencias interpretativas entre el análisis de los conjuntos líticos desde marcos analíticos de baja resolución temporal hacia aquellos con una escala temporal menor vinculados a lo que podrían ser ocupaciones singulares. Para ello, se ofrece una síntesis de los resultados de estudios tecnológicos realizados sobre conjuntos líticos de las unidades estratigráficas xa de El Salt y iv de El Pastor., L’objectiu d’aquest article és la posada en valor de les diferències interpretatives entre l’anàlisi dels conjunts lítics des de marcs analítics de baixa resolució temporal cap a aquells amb una escala temporal menor vinculats al que podrien ser ocupacions singulars. Per això, s’hi oferix una síntesi dels resultats d’estudis tecnològics realitzats sobre conjunts lítics de les unitats estratigràfiques xa d’El Salt i iv d’El Pastor., The goal of this paper is to put in value the interpretative differences between the analysis of lithic assemblages from low-temporal resolution analytical frames towards those counting on a lower time-scale, which are linked to what could be single occupations. For doing that, it is offered a synthesis of results from technological studies carried out on lithic assemblages from the stratigraphic units xa of El Salt and iv of El Pastor.

The transition period between the middle and late Holocene in the Puna of Jujuy accounts for a variety of changes. The passage from a hunting-gathering strategy to a productive strategy had an impact in every activity. Such is the case of Morro Blanco. The relationship between both lines of evidence has been analysed, having identified an artefactual assemblage designated as potentially engraving tools, related to the manufacture of petroglyphs. The presence of artefacts and tools manufactured almost exclusively in quartzite was noted. We evaluate its presence in the sites, determining whether there was an intentional selection process. The objective is to delve into the first step of the manufacturing process of the potential engraving tools from a technological point of view, emphasising the importance quartzite had in the process of intentionally selecting lithic raw materials, supporting the hypothesis that this tools were in fact used to manufacture engravings., El periodo de transición entre el Holoceno Medio y Tardío en la Puna de Jujuy da cuenta de una variedad de cambios. El pasaje de una estrategia basada en la caza y recolección hacia una estrategia productiva tuvo impacto en varias actividades. Tal es el caso de Morro Blanco. La relación entre ambas líneas de evidencia ha sido analizada, habiendo identificado un conjunto artefactual designado como instrumentos potencialmente grabadores, relacionado con la manufactura de petroglifos. Se advirtió el registro de artefactos e instrumentos realizados casi exclusivamente en cuarcita. Se evalúa la presencia de esta materia prima, para determinar si hubo un proceso de selección. El objetivo es ahondar en la primera etapa del proceso de manufactura de los instrumentos desde un punto de vista tecnológico, señalando la relevancia que tuvo la cuarcita en un proceso de selección intencional, apoyando la hipótesis de que estos instrumentos fueron utilizados para ejecutar grabados.

This paper presents novel information on technological choices regarding lithic raw material and core exploitation in the proximity of the Avilés and Chico river confluence, in the steppe sector of Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. The techno-morphological analysis of the Avilés 3 archaeological site indicated a predominance of informal, non-depleted cores (N=16) of expeditive manufacture. As a conclusion, this work poses that human groups did not seek to maximize raw material. Instead, they applied an expeditive rock exploitation strategy, within a high-mobility scenario with an abundant distribution of easily obtainable raw materials., El trabajo presenta la información obtenida sobre las decisiones tecnológicas en relación al aprovechamiento de las materias primas líticas y explotación de núcleos en el área próxima a la confluencia de los ríos Avilés y Chico, en la estepa fueguina del sector argentino. El análisis tecnomorfológico de los núcleos del sitio Avilés 3 (N=16) constituyó la vía de abordaje, y arrojó como resultado una predominancia de núcleos informales no agotados y de manufactura expeditiva. Se concluye que los grupos humanos no buscaron maximizar la materia prima al implementar una estrategia expeditiva en el aprovechamiento de las rocas, en un escenario donde prevaleció una alta movilidad y una distribución de abundantes materias primas disponibles fácilmente.

During last three decades, the technological approach confirmed to be a useful tool to understand stone tools. This approach is mostly based on the well known methodology proposed by the French scholar E. Boëda. Here we propose to reconsider the epistemological value of the Boëda’s technological approach: diachronic and synchronic technical changes should be considered by means of an historical perspective suggesting that human groups are adapting themselves to environmental conditions.

The paper systematize informations related with one of the most singular artifacts in Cuban archaeological record. Due to its typology, scarce presence, and scientific ignorance of its use in small-scale productive populations. The study reveals a universe of that objects conserved in collections and funds, their techno-typological details, as well as their cultural and chronological context. Archaeometric studies were realize on a sample of seventeen objects from settlements located in the Cauto River basin through the extraction of sediments and subsequent identification of starch granules. The study revealed that lithic tools participated in activities related to food processing and later as part of the assembly of string drills., Este trabajo sistematiza la información relacionada con uno de los artefactos más singulares del registro arqueológico cubano. Singularidad marcada por su tipología, escasa presencia y carencia de estudios científicos sobre su uso en las poblaciones de baja escala productiva. El estudio revela un universo de estos objetos conservados en fondos o colecciones, sus detalles tecno-tipológicos, así como su contexto cultural y cronológico. Se realizaron estudios arqueométricos sobre una muestra de diecisiete objetos procedentes de asentamientos arqueológicos ubicados en la cuenca del río Cauto (Cuba), mediante la extracción de sedimentos y la posterior identificación de gránulos de almidón. Estos estudios revelaron que estas herramientas líticas participaban en actividades relacionadas con el procesamiento de alimentos y, posteriormente, fueron parte del ensamblaje de los llamados taladros de cordel.

[EN] The Iberomaurusian lithic assemblages from Ifri El Baroud (northeast Morocco) are discussed from techno-economic, typological, and functional points of view. The site preserves an archaeological sequence spanning the period ca. 23,000–13,000 cal BP. The analysis of the lithic materials from the sequence highlights the diachronic changes in human behavior. Results show a strong relationship between paleoenvironmental shifts and changes in settlement strategies and lithic production., [FR] Les assemblages lithiques ibéromaurusiens du site Ifri El Baroud (Nord-est du Maroc) sont discutés d'un point de vue techno-économique, typologique et fonctionnel. Le site conserve une séquence archéologique couvrant la période d’environ 23.00-13.000 cal BP. L'analyse des matériaux lithiques a permis de mettre en évidence des modifications diachroniques du comportement humain. Les résultats montrent une forte relation entre les changements paléo-environnementaux et les changements dans les stratégies d’établissement et la production lithique.

[EN] Bifacial tools made of flint are some of the most representative elements of the Late Neolithic-Chalcolithic in much of the western Iberia. In Portugal these pieces, traditionally called foicinhas, are currently known as “foliaceous blades”. Many sites of this period are fortified settlements, Leceia being one of the best-known examples. Surprisingly, in spite of their abundance the lithic instruments in general, and foliaceous blades in particular, in sites of this period have not been studied in detail. Here we address the raw material, technology, morphology, and function of these tools. This allows us to evaluate the supply areas, the possible social relations established with other groups (based on the origin of certain types of flint), the technological capacity of the inhabitants of Leceia, and the function of some of these blades., [ES] Uno de los elementos más representativos del Neolítico Final-Calcolítico en buen parte del oeste de la Península Ibérica son las piezas bifaciales elaboradas en sílex. En el territorio portugués, estas piezas, llamadas tradicionalmente foicinhas, son ahora conocidas como “láminas foliáceas”. Muchos yacimientos de este periodo son poblados fortificados, siendo el de Leceia uno de los ejemplos más conocidos. Este trabajo se centra en dichas piezas que carecen de un análisis profundo. Ello es sorprendente pues son muchos los instrumentos líticos, en general, y las láminas foliáceas, en particular, documentadas en los yacimientos de esta cronología. A lo largo del texto abordamos la información relativa a la materia prima, la tecnología, la morfología y la función de estos útiles. Ello nos ha permitido evaluar las zonas de aprovisionamiento de la población de Leceia, las posibles relaciones sociales que había establecido con otros grupos a partir del origen de ciertos tipos de sílex, su capacidad tecnológica y la función a la que se destinaron algunas de esas láminas.