Investigating the MIS2 Microlithic Assemblage of Umbeli Belli Rockshelter and Its Place Within the Chrono-cultural Sequence of the LSA Along the East Coast of Southern Africa
Open Access
- 14 November 2022
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Springer Nature in African Archaeological Review
- Vol. 40 (1) , 145-167
Abstract
South Africa is arguably one of the most studied regions in Stone Age research. There are, however, considerable differences in research intensity with respect to different regions and time periods. While KwaZulu-Natal is an epicenter for Middle Stone Age (MSA) research, the Late Pleistocene LSA record is largely understudied in this region. Here we present a lithic assemblage from the site Umbeli Belli near Scottburgh dated to 17.8 ± 1.5ka BP. The lithic analysis of the GH 3 assemblages revealed both gradual and abrupt changes within this stratigraphic horizon, indicating relatively short-term changes in material cultural traditions. A comparison with other Robberg sites in the wider surroundings highlights the regional variability of the Robberg techno-complex and indicates potential directions for future research.Keywords
Funding Information
- Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (CO226-24-01)
- Ministerium für Wissenschaft, Forschung und Kunst Baden-Württemberg
- Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen
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