Abstract
ABSTRACT Chindadn bifaces are one of the few diagnostic lithic hallmarks of the terminal Pleistocene in interior Alaska. This paper presents the first regional overview and quantitative technological analysis of bifaces from archaeological sites dating 11,400 calendar years ago and earlier, based on characteristics of reduction, shaping, use, and discard. Overall, finished bifaces are small and extremely thin, with evidence of expedient production and use. Four basal-shape groups are present, falling semi-consistently into four descriptions. Convex-based bifaces appear as a distinct group with teardrop outline, informal reduction techniques, and minimal evidence for utilization. Triangular and subtriangular bifaces, exhibiting diverse reduction characteristics and low rates of hafting wear and breakage, appear to be more generalized point tips designed to conserve raw materials in Beringian climates. Concave-based bifaces show intensive flaking and high rates of haft-element breakage and abrasion, indicating they do not fit within a strict definition of Chindadn biface technology.
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