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

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.

Automated summary

South Africa is a highly studied region in Stone Age research, but research intensity varies for different regions and time periods. This article presents a lithic assemblage from the site Umbeli Belli near Scottburgh and highlights relatively short-term changes in material cultural traditions.