Middle Paleolithic technological diversity during MIS 3 in the Western Tian Shan piedmonts: Example of the Katta Sai 1 open -air loess site

A new variant of Middle Paleolithic adaptation has been identified in the Western Tian Shan piedmonts, distinct from known blade-dominated technologies. The study, conducted at the Katta Sai 1 open-air loess site (dated to ~40 kya), reveals a unique knapping scheme using locally sourced river pebbles with predetermined Levallois core reduction. While volumetric features were present, this technology differed significantly from other regional sites like Obi-Rakhmat and Kulbulak, where blade production prevailed. The research, part of a large-scale interdisciplinary project, sheds light on the technological diversity during Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS 3) in Central Asia.

Pavlenok, K., Kot, M., Pavlenok, G., Krajcarz, M. T., Khudjanazarov, M., Leloch, M., & Szymczak, K. (2021). Middle Paleolithic technological diversity during MIS 3 in the Western Tian Shan piedmonts: Example of the Katta Sai 1 open -air loess site. Archaeological Research in Asia, 25, 100262. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ara.2021.100262