The other MSA: non-Aterian lithic assemblages in Algeria, characteristics and attribution

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Middle Stone Age in northwest Africa is mainly described in terms of two technocomplexes, the Aterian and Mousterian, the definitions of which have evolved as research has progressed. While the Aterian is often characterised by tanged tool assemblages, the Mousterian seems to have been defined by default and other denominations such as Levalloisian, Middle Palaeolithic and Sbaikian have also been used for MSA lithic assemblages without pedunculates. Beyond the legitimate question of the relevance of these classifications, one may wonder whether the available quantitative data allow us to identify the variability of lithic assemblages outside the Aterian technocomplex. In the Algerian context, this question is addressed by analysing data recovered by researchers from archaeological sites qualified as non-Aterian. Information and gaps are discussed and compared with what is known about the same period in northwestern Africa, particularly Morocco.