New Data for Asymmetric Core Reduction in Western Tian Shan Piedmonts: The Ertash Sai 2 Open-Air Site

A newly discovered open-air loess site, Ertash Sai 2, in the western piedmonts of the Tian Shan (Uzbekistan), reveals a unique asymmetric core reduction scheme alongside Levallois-like predetermined knapping. The study identifies a direct relationship between this technique and the production of truncated-faceted pieces and burin-cores, with most truncated-faceted pieces derived from débordant blades or flakes. Chronostratigraphic analysis dates the assemblage to 68–57 ka BP, challenging conventional views on the origins of Initial Upper Palaeolithic traits in Central Asia by suggesting local Levallois-based roots.

Kot, M., Kogai, S., Pavlenok, G., Gryczewska, N., Brancaleoni, G., Krajcarz, M. T., Moska, P., Leloch, M., Khudjanazarov, M., Szymczak, K., Muhtarov, G., & Pavlenok, K. (2024). New Data for Asymmetric Core Reduction in Western Tian Shan Piedmonts: The Ertash Sai 2 Open-Air Site. Lithic Technology, 50(1), 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1080/01977261.2024.2319429