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The Afontova Gora IV (Ovrazhnaya) Site: An Analysis of a Complex with “Ocher” in the Structure of the Paleolithic Layer
https://doi.org/10.17746/1563-0110.2024.52.4.075-084
Abstract
We analyze a part of the Paleolithic layer of Afontova Gora IV (Ovrazhnaya) in Krasnoyarsk, evidencing intentional exploitation of outcrops of red sandstone and other local rocks. We describe archaeological finds and faunal remains, identify species important for subsistence. Based on the results of the intrasite spatial analysis, we separate an area of domestic activities centered on an open hearth. Scar-patterns and raw material links were analyzed. The preservation of the cultural context was demonstrated. The area likely functioned within a single activity episode. Types of activity are reconstructed. Primary reduction techniques applied to oval-flat pebbles to get first or second order blades were the same as those used to obtain ready wedge-shaped microcores transported to the site. To test the idea that red rocks were used as sources for mineral pigment, rock samples and archaeological artifacts were examined. In samples from Afontova Gora IV, no minerals that could be used to obtain the red pigment of the “ocher” type were found. Pieces of red rock brought to the site must have been used differently. The 14C-date of the complex with cultural remains is ca 18 ka cal BP.
Keywords
Yenisei Paleolithic,
Afontova Gora,
utilitarian complex,
intrasite spatial analysis,
ocher,
X-ray diffraction analysis
Supporting agencies: This study was carried out under R&D project of the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography SB RAS “North Asia in the Stone Age: Cultural Dynamics and Environmental Context” (FWZG-2022-0003). Financial support was provided by the Autonomous Nonprofit Organization “Archaeological Study of Siberia” and “Krasnoyarsk Geoarhaeology” LTD (Krasnoyarsk) under the research project “The Afontova Gora IV Site”. The authors are grateful to the heads and staff members of these institutions. Analytical works were carried out by the Center for Geodynamics and Geochronology of the Institute of the Earth’s Crust SB RAS (Irkutsk)
About the Authors
I. I. Razgildeeva
Transbaikal State University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Associate Professor
Alexandro-Zavodskaya 30, Chita, 672039
E. V. Akimova
Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Senior Researcher
pr. Akademika Lavrentieva 17, Novosibirsk, 630090
A. V. Barkov
Krasnoyarsk Geoarchaeology” LTD
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Department Head
pr. Mira 25, bldg. 1, Krasnoyarsk, 660049
E. I. Demonterova
Institute of the Earth’s Crust, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Leading Researcher
Lermontova 128, Irkutsk, 664033
A. M. Klementiev
Institute of the Earth’s Crust, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Researcher
Lermontova 128, Irkutsk, 664033
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Review
For citations:
Razgildeeva I.I., Akimova E.V., Barkov A.V., Demonterova E.I., Klementiev A.M. The Afontova Gora IV (Ovrazhnaya) Site: An Analysis of a Complex with “Ocher” in the Structure of the Paleolithic Layer. Archaeology, Ethnology & Anthropology of Eurasia. 2024;52(4):75-84. https://doi.org/10.17746/1563-0110.2024.52.4.075-084
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