Development phases of the microlithic technology in the Early Upper Paleolithic of Kostenki (36,5-28 kyr bp)

This article presents the results of the typological analysis of Early Upper Paleolithic non-geometric microliths from the Kostenki site cluster. A relationship is evident between certain types of microlith and the age of different Kostenki sites, as determined by stratigraphic correlation and radiocarbon dating. Three chronological groups correspond to a) the Lower Humic Bed, b) the level of Campanian Ignimbrite tephra, and c) the upper part of the Upper Humic Bed. In all three groups, non-geometric microliths matched or showed similarities with Aurignacian sensu lato types, as well as demonstrated some local features. During this study, criteria for the definition of some microlith types were reconsidered, and certain types were distinguished for the first time. The suggested model of diachronic change of Early Upper Paleolithic microlithic technologies at Kostenki allows comparison with contemporaneous sites in Southwestern France and Eastern Europe.