Крем’яний комплекс шару 4 стоянки Фатьма Коба, Крим, Україна
The Early Holocene complex of Layer 4 at the Fatma Koba is associated with a change from the Shpan Koba to the Murzak Koba culture. The change is marked by the appearance of pressure lamellar technology. The beginning of the transformation relates to the migration of Darkveti population from the Sou...
Gespeichert in:
| Veröffentlicht in: | Археологія |
|---|---|
| Datum: | 2026 |
| Heft: | 1 |
| Сторінки: | 5-17 |
| ISSN: | 2616-499X |
| Автори та афіліації: |
|
| Hauptverfasser: | , |
| Format: | Artikel |
| Sprache: | Englisch |
| Veröffentlicht: |
Institute of Archaeology NAS of Ukraine
2026
|
| Schlagworte: | |
| Online Zugang: | https://arheologia.com.ua/index.php/arheologia/article/view/437 |
| Tags: |
Tag hinzufügen
Keine Tags, Fügen Sie den ersten Tag hinzu!
|
| Назва журналу: | Chemistry, Physics and Technology of Surface |
| Завантажити файл: |  |
Institution
Chemistry, Physics and Technology of Surface| _version_ | 1872824657810292736 |
|---|---|
| author | Manko, V. O. Telizhenko, S. A. |
| author_facet | Manko, V. O. Telizhenko, S. A. |
| author_institution_txt_mv | [
{
"author": " V. O. Manko",
"institution": "PhD, Senior Researc Fellow, the Institute of Archaeology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, the Department of Archaeology of the Crimea and North-Western Black Sea",
"orcid": ""
},
{
"author": "S. A. Telizhenko",
"institution": "PhD, Senior Researcher, the Institute of Archaeology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, the Department of Archaeology of the Crimea and North-Western Black Sea",
"orcid": ""
}
] |
| author_sort | Manko, V. O. |
| baseUrl_str | https://arheologia.com.ua/index.php/arheologia/oai |
| collection | OJS |
| container_end_page | 17 |
| container_issue | 1 |
| container_start_page | 5 |
| container_title | Археологія |
| container_volume | |
| datestamp_date | 2026-03-21T11:40:41Z |
| description | The Early Holocene complex of Layer 4 at the Fatma Koba is associated with a change from the Shpan Koba to the Murzak Koba culture. The change is marked by the appearance of pressure lamellar technology. The beginning of the transformation relates to the migration of Darkveti population from the South Caucasus. It is significant that the change in the technology of knapping did not lead to a change in the typology of the complex of modified pieces. |
| doi_str_mv | 10.15407/archaeologyua2026.01.005 |
| first_indexed | 2026-08-07T01:06:15Z |
| format | Article |
| fulltext |
НАЦIОНАЛЬНА АКАДЕМIЯ НАУК УКРАЇНИ • IНСТИТУТ АРХЕОЛОГIЇ НАН УКРАЇНИ
НАУКОВИЙ ЖУРНАЛ – ЗАСНОВАНИЙ У 1947 р.
ВИДАЄТЬСЯ ЩОКВАРТАЛЬНО
КИЇВ 1 2026
АРХЕОЛОГIЯ
Головний редактор
ЧАБАЙ В. П., член-кореспондент НАН України, Iнститут археологiї НАН України
Редакцiйна колегiя
БОЛТРИК Ю. В. – кандидат історичних наук, Інститут археології НАН України
БУЙСЬКИХ А. В. – доктор історичних наук, Інститут археології НАН України
ГАРДІ С. Е. – PhD, Альянс для боротьби зі злочинністю в інтернеті, Велика Британія
ДЖІНДЖАН Ф. – професор, доктор хаб., Університет Сорбонни, Париж-1, Франція
ЗАЛІЗНЯК Л. Л. – професор, доктор історичних наук, Інститут археології НАН України
КАЙЗЕР Е. – професор, доктор хаб., Вільний університет Берліна, Німеччина
МОТУЗАЙТЕ МАТУЗЕВІЧУТЕ (КІН) Ґ. – професор, PhD, Вільнюський університет, Литва
ОТРОЩЕНКО В. В. – професор, доктор історичних наук, Інститут археології НАН України
ПЛАВІНСЬКИЙ М. О. – кандидат історичних наук, Варшавський університет, Польща
ПОТЄХІНА І. Д. – кандидат історичних наук, Інститут археології НАН України, Україна
РАБІНОВІЦ А. – PhD, Техаський університет в Остіні, Сполучені штати Америки
ФОРНАСЬЄ Й. – професор, доктор, Галле-Віттенбергський університет імені Мартіна Лютера, Німеччина
ШЕВЧЕНКО Т. М. – кандидат історичних наук, Інститут археології НАН України (відповідальний секретар)
ШНЕЕВАЙС Є. – доктор хаб., Центр археології Ляйбніца, Німеччина
NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF UKRAINE • INSTITUTE OF ARCHAEOLOGY NAS OF UKRAINE
SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL – FOUNDED IN 1947
FREQUENCY: QUARTERLY
Editor-in-Chief
CHABAI V. P., Corresponding Member of the NAS of Ukraine, Institute of Archaeology
of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Editorial Board
BOLTRYK Yu. V. – PhD in History, Institute of Archaeology NAS of Ukraine
BUISKYKH A. V. – DSc., Institute of Archaeology NAS of Ukraine
DJINDJIAN F. – Professor, Dr. Hab., University of Paris 1 Pantheon Sorbonne, France
FORNASIER J. – Professor, Ph.D., Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany
MOTUZAITĖ MATUZEVIČIŪTĖ (KEEN) G. – Professor, Ph.D., Vilniaus universitetas, Lithuania
HARDY S. A. – PhD., Alliance to Counter Crime Online, United Kingdom
KAISER E. – Professor, Dr. Hab., Institute of Prehistoric Archaeology Freie Universität Berlin, Germany
OTROSHCHENKO V. V. – Professor, DSc., Institute of Archaeology NAS of Ukraine
PLAVINSKI M. O. – PhD in History, University of Warsaw, Poland
POTEKHINA I. D. – PhD in History, Institute of Archaeology of the NAS of Ukraine
RABINOWITZ A. – PhD in Classical Archaeology, The University of Texas at Austin, USA
SHEVCHENKO T. M. – PhD in History, Institute of Archaeology NAS of Ukraine (Executive Secretary)
SCHNEEWEISS J. – Dr. Hab., Leibniz-Zentrum für Archäologie, Germany
ZALIZNIAK L. L. – Professor, DSc., Institute of Archaeology NAS of Ukraine
ARHEOLOGIA
KYIV 1 2026
ЗМIСТ CONTENTS
Articles
MANKO V. O., TELIZHENKO S. A. Flint
Artefacts of Layer 4 at the Fatma Koba Site, Cimea,
Ukraine
PUKLINA O. O. Painted Glassware from Olbia
Pontica
SIKOZA D. M. Hun Assemblage from the Dnipro
River Lower Region
AKSIONOV V. S. Catacombs of a Specific Type
within the Verkhnii Saltiv Necropolis
Publications
of Archaeological Materials
LYSENKO S. D., LYSENKO S. S. Late Bronze
and Early Iron Age Assemblages of the Voitsekhivka
Cemetery (based on research of 2013)
CHECHULINA I. O. Black-Glazed Ware in the Col-
lection of Classical Antiquities of the Altes Museum
(Berlin, Germany): Perspectives from the Northern
Black Sea Region
SAVELIEVA K. S., SAVELIEV O. K. Lamps from
the Roman Citadel of Tyras
Статтi
МАНЬКО В. О., ТЕЛІЖЕНКО С. А. Крем’яний
комплекс шару 4 стоянки Фатьма Коба, Крим,
Україна
ПУКЛІНА О. О. Розписний скляний посуд з
Ольвії Понтійської
СІКОЗА Д. М. Комплекс гунського часу з
пониззя Дніпра
АКСЬОНОВ В. С. Катакомби особливого типу
Верхньосалтівського некрополя
Публiкацiї
археологiчних матерiалiв
ЛИСЕНКО С. Д., ЛИСЕНКО С. С. Комплекси
кінця пізнього бронзового та ранього залізного
віку Войцехівського могильника (за матеріалами
досліджень 2013 р.)
ЧЕЧУЛІНА І. О. Чорнолаковий посуд у зібранні
античної колекції Старого музею (Берлін, Ні-
меччина): погляд із Північного Причорномор’я
САВЕЛЬЄВА К. С., САВЕЛЬЄВ О. К. Світиль-
ники з римської цитаделі Тіри
5
18
28
46
65
92
106
До iсторiї
стародавнього виробництва
БУЦЬКИЙ І. М., МИШУСТА О. В. Тех-
нологічні традиції виготовлення кераміки
населення фіналу доби бронзи в басейні р. Самара
Iсторiя науки
ПОПЕЛЬНИЦЬКА О. О. Кремінний нако-
нечник дротика доби бронзи з Криму
To the History
of Ancient Crafts
BUTSKYI I. M., MYSHUSTA O. V. Technologi-
cal Traditions of Ceramics Production of the Final
Bronze Age Population in the Samara River Basin
History of Science
POPELNYTSKA O. O. A Bronze Age Flint Dart
Point from Crimea
125
142
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 1 5
Статтi
УДК: 903.4-032/577(477.75)”632”
https://doi.org/10.15407/arheologyua2026.01.005
© MANKO Valerii Oleksandrovych, 2026 — PhD, Senior
Researc Fellow, the Institute of Archaeology of the National
Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, the Department of
Archaeology of the Crimea and North-Western Black Sea,
ORCID: 0000-0002-2990-7234, Valery_Manko@ yahoo.com
© TELIZHENKO Serhii Anatoliyovych, 2026 — PhD, Senior
Researcher, the Institute of Archaeology of the National
Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, the Department of
Archaeology of the Crimea and North-Western Black Sea,
ORCID: 0000-0003-1677-4900, telizharh@hotmail.com
© Інститут археології НАН України, 2026
FLINT ARTEFACTS OF LAYER 4
AT THE FATMA KOBA SITE, CRIMEA, UKRAINE
V. O. MANKO, S. A. TELIZHENKO
research. Usually, only the initial and final phases of
development can be described, while the transition
from one phase to another occurs so quickly that
it remains elusive for archaeologists. This circum-
stance makes the flint complex from Layer 4 of the
Fatma Koba site even more valuable.
The main objective of this article is to investigate
the origins of the Murzakobian industry and to
demonstrate a potential connection with flaked
stone industries of Asia Minor and the Caucasus.
History of Research
The Fatma-Koba site was discovered in 1927 by
S. О. Trusova and S. М. Bibikov in the Mountain
Crimea, under a rock shelter on the bank of the
Kubular-Dere stream (fig. 1). The first excavations
were carried out in the same year by H. A. Bonch-
Osmolovskyi, who attributed the industries of Lay-
ers 4, 3, and 2 at Fatma-Koba to the Tardenoisian
(Бонч-Осмоловский 1934). This attribution had
nothing to do with the cultural specificity of flint
complexes, but rather reflected the author’s adherence
to the stadial theory of Stone Age development.
Based on stratigraphic data (Бибиков, Станко,
Коен 1994, tabl. XXIV–XXVI), H. A. Bonch-Os-
molovskyi subdivided Layer 4 into three condition-
al horizons (4.3, 4.2, and 4.1). Unfortunately, the
assemblages obtained were not sufficiently repre-
sentative. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the
asymmetrical triangles were only found in Lay-
er 4.2, which is considered diagnostic of the Murzak
Koba culture. Further excavations were carried out
in 1956–1958 by S. M. Bibikov (Бибиков 1966).
Unfortunately, during the excavation, Layer 4 of
Fatma Koba could not be divided into horizons as
those defined earlier by Bonch-Osmolovskyi.
D. Ya. Telehin was a supporter of the so-called
Mountain Crimean culture (Shan Koba and Murzak
Koba cultures as manifestations of a single cultural
phenomenon) (Телегін 1982). Within this framework,
the complexes of Layer 4 of Fatma-Koba were inter-
The Early Holocene complex of Layer 4 at the Fat-
ma Koba is associated with a change from the Shpan
Koba to the Murzak Koba culture. The change is
marked by the appearance of pressure lamellar tech-
nology. The beginning of the transformation relates
to the migration of Darkveti population from the
South Caucasus. It is significant that the change in
the technology of knapping did not lead to a change
in the typology of the complex of modified pieces.
Key words: Crimea, Early Holocene, Trialeti indus-
try, pressure lamellar technology, asymmetric trian-
gles, bipolar retouch, migrations, networks.
It has always been challenging to explain new
cultural phenomena in prehistory. Archaeological
cultures often appear to arise spontaneously.
The origin of the Murzak Koba culture has
also been discussed in different ways, with
some researchers arguing for an autochthonous
development, while others emphasise migration
processes. In this regard, the materials from Lay-
er 4 of the Fatma Koba site offer an opportunity to
observe the transformation of one archaeological
phenomenon into another in detail. This article,
therefore, will present the flaked flint items found
in this layer and will systematically discuss techno-
logical and typological characteristics. The assem-
blage can be interpreted as a transitional industry, a
phenomenon that is exceptional in archaeological
This is an Open Access article under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 license
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/legalcode.en
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 16
preted as representing only a “Murzakkobian phase”
of the Mountain Crimean culture.
Following the publication of the monograph
The Final Palaeolithic and Mesolithic of the
Mountain Crimea (Бибиков, Станко, Коен 1994),
the term “Murzak Koba culture” became generally
accepted among Eastern European archaeologists.
The authors further subdivided this culture into
two facies — Points Tardenoisian and Ordinary
Tardenoisian — and assigned the assemblage of
Layer 4 from Fatma-Koba to the former. This
interpretation is problematic because geometric
microliths are, in fact, the main type of arrowhead.
More recently, O. O. Yanevych characterised
Layer 4 of Fatma-Koba as a mixed layer containing
artefacts associated with both the Shan Koba and
Murzak Koba cultures (Яневич 2019). The layer
was dated to the Boreal period, an interpretation with
which we agree.
Methods and Terminology
In this publication, we use the terms Shpan Koba
and Murzak Koba cultures. At the same time, the
term Trialetian is used to refer to both cultural enti-
ties (Manko, Chkhatarashvili 2022).
Our research is based on a combined typological
and technological analysis. Particular emphasis is
placed on the technological methodology related to
the production of blades, bladelets, and microblades,
which are especially informative for the analysis of
the flint complex from Layer 4. The inhabitants of
the site employed both direct percussion and pressure
lamellar core reduction strategy. Accordingly, the
question of the cultural homogeneity of the complex
is of great importance. The complexity of modified
pieces was analysed separately for each technological
group. Comparison of the results allowed us to assess
the lithic assemblage of the complex as relatively
homogeneous. The criteria for pressure flaking can-
not be determined through measurement or statisti-
cal analysis. The only objective technological crite-
rion is the angle at which force is applied to obtain
laminar pieces. Pressure flaking methods enable lam-
inar pieces to be obtained from surfaces positioned
at obtuse angles to the force application axis. How-
ever, this criterion has very limited application. Typ-
ically, pressure laminar pieces were obtained using
methods that did not require such sophisticated tech-
niques. The angle between the force application vec-
tor and the platform was usually 60°. Therefore, var-
ious measurements are meaningless when it comes
to determining the criteria of pressure flaking. Visu-
al determination is the only possible method. Thin,
slightly curved laminar pieces have parallel edges
and ridges. This circumstance enables artefacts asso-
ciated with pressure flaking to be identified with vir-
tually no margin of error.
The attribution of the Layer 4 complex to the
Trialetian industry made it necessary to consider
the synchronous development of this industry in
Asia Minor, the southern, eastern, and western
shores of the Caspian Sea, as well as in the southern
Caucasus and the Crimea. Such observations enable
conclusions to be drawn regarding the origin of the
Shpan Koba and Murzak Koba industries and suggest
the existence of an extensive network at the transition
from the Boreal to the Atlantic period. Thus, we can
Fig. 1. Final Pleistocene and Early Holocene sites. 1 — Fatma Koba; 2 — Shpan Koba; 3 — Murzak Koba; 4 — Alimovskyi Navis,
Zamil Koba; 5 — Vodopadnyi Grotto; 6 — Skeliastyi Grotto; 7 — Shpan Koba, Vishenne 1; 8 — Kukrek; 9 — Buran Kaya Navis,
Buran Kaya III, IV; 10 — Frontove; 11— Laspi 7; 12 — Edzani; 13 — Zurtaketi; 14 — Kotias Klde, 15 — Darkveti; 16 — Bavra; 17
— Chokh; 18 — Melouri; 19 — Zemo Lemsa; 20 — Dghvartskhma
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 1 7
synchronise similar developments in lithic industries
across different regions. The explanation of this phe-
nomenon is supported by absolute chronological data.
Absolute chronological data were compared
with relative chronological frameworks, including
stratigraphic evidence from multilayer assemblages
both on the territory of the Crimea and in remote
regions associated with the Trialetian network.
Comparative analysis of typology, blade pro-
duction techniques, and chronological data was used
to assess the contribution of the Trialetian network
population to the development of the European
Neolithic.
Flint Complex of Layer 4
Raw material
All of the artefacts found in Layer 4 of Fatma
Koba are associated with local flint sources. Several
sources of flint were likely used. Most of the artefacts
are made from brown and grey flint extract-ed from
nodules, probably originating from nearby deposits. In
particular, flint sources in the vicinity of the village of
Skelia in the Baydar Valley were most likely utilised.
Flint knapping
Flint knapping aimed at obtaining blades,
bladelets, and microblades through the utilisation of
both direct percussion and pressure methodologies.
The structure of the flint complex is shown in Table 1.
Only four cores were found in Layer 4. One
of the cores is associated with direct percussion,
as evidenced by the blade negatives. It is the
bidirectional flat back blade core (fig. 2: 3). Its
dimensions are 4.2 × 3.8 × 1.2 cm, indicating that it
represents a core in the last phase of flint knapping.
Two cores are associated with a pressure
blade methodology. One is the sub-cylindrical
bidirectional crested back blade/bladelet core. This
core exhibits two striking platforms: main and
supplementary (fig. 2: 1). The latter was used to
remove the hinge fractures on the flaking surface.
Attempts to remove the blade from the second
platform were also unsuccessful. The dimensions of
this core are 7.2 × 3.0 × 2.7 cm.
The second pressure core is the bidirectional
adjacent wedge-shaped blade/bladelet core. This
core exhibits two striking platforms: main and
supplementary. The latter was used to create the
adjacent flaking surface and wedge shape of the core
(fig. 2.2). Its dimensions are 4.2 × 2.5 × 1.3 cm. The
core illustrated in fig. 2: 3 may represent an earlier
stage of knapping, discarded due to the unsuccessful
blade removal.
One of the cores shows traces of flake removals
(fig. 2: 4). This specimen is a single-platform,
monofrontal (single-faced), flat core with an un-
modified back. It is likely associated with repeated
unsuccessful attempts to resume flake removal. Its
dimensions are 4.2 × 3.8 × 1.2 cm.
In addition, 23 flint fragments may be associated
with failed attempts to formalise further core knapping.
There are six crested blades in the complex.
These artefacts are associated with the removal of
ridges from cores to create a straight, raised ridge
for the initiation of blade extraction.
A total of 391 flakes were recorded. Of these, 28
are primary flakes exebit ≥75 % of the cortex (width
5–8 cm: 2; 3–5 cm: 9; 1–3 cm: 17), 41 are corticat-
ed flakes exebit <75 % of the cortex (5–8 cm: 4; 3–5
cm: 14; 1–3 cm: 23), 391 are noncorticated flakes
(5–8 cm: 17; 3–5 cm: 87; 1–3 cm: 287). There are
343 lamellar pieces, and only 475 flakes in the com-
plex. Such a ratio is highly unlikely if flint knapping
took place in the area of the site. The impression is
that most of the flakes were brought to the site. The
number of chunks (186) corresponds to a pattern as-
sociated with the knapping of a single core.
A total of 57 blades, bladelets, and their parts,
linked to a direct percussion method, were identified.
The number of complete blades is greater than the
number of deliberately fractured blades (Table 1).
In addition, 21 blades and 9 bladelets were record-
ed. It should also be noted that the medial parts of
the bladelets are missing.
Eighty-seven blades, bladelets, microblades, and
their parts were produced using the pressure method.
Complete blades are absent from this group. There are
28 proximal, 20 medial, and 14 distal parts of blanks.
In general, the structure of the complex is char-
acterised by a large number of modified pieces
(214 forming 20.38 %, Tables 1–2), which suggests
that Layer 4 of the Fatma Koba site represents a
logistical camp of hunters.
Modified Pieces
A total of 214 modified pieces were recovered
from Layer 4 at Fatma-Koba. Taking into account the
heterogeneity of the flake complex, these artefacts
are grouped as follows: modified pieces on flakes ‒
15 items, on blades and bladelets ‒ 99 items, on pressure
blades, bladelets and microblades ‒ 100 items.
Modified pieces on flakes
One scraper on a flake was identified (3.5 ×
1.9 × 0.6 cm; fig. 2: 4). Five burins were record-
ed: three dihedral asymmetrical burins (2.4 × 3.1 ×
0.6 cm, 3.9 × 1.8 × 0.7, 2.6 × 1.7 × 0.8 cm; fig. 2:
5); two transversal burins on laterally truncat-
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 18
Fig. 2. Fatma Koba, Layer 4. 1–3 — cores; 4 — scraper on flake; 5–8 — burins on flakes
ed flakes (4.3 × 3.7 × 1.2 cm and 4.3 × 2.3 × 0.6
cm; fig. 2: 6–7). One transversal burin on modified
splintered piece on the flake was found (5.0 × 4.0
× 1.5 cm, fig. 2: 8).
Two retouched flakes were documented (4.3 ×
2.7 × 1.0 cm and 4.6 × 3.7 × 0.9 cm; fig. 2: 11 3: 11),
along with six notched flakes. These notched flakes
range in length from 2.4 to 4.7 cm, width 1.8–2.8 cm,
and thickness 0.5–1.3 cm.
Modified pieces on pressure lamellar pieces
A total of 109 modified pieces created on direct
percussion blades were found.
Four scrapers were identified: one end-scrape
on a blade (fig. 3: 1); two end-scrapers on blades
with broken distal parts (fig. 3: 2–3); one double
end-scraper (fig. 3: 4). Dimensions range from
2.0–3.4 cm in length, 1.6–1.9 cm in width, and
0.4–0.6 cm in thickness. All scrapers have convex
1
2 3
4
5
6
7
80 1 2 cm
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 1 9
working edges, formed with sub-parallel retouch-
ing.
Twenty-five burins were recorded: fourteen angle
burins on broken proximal (fig. 3: 5–11), medial
(fig. 3: 12–14), and distal (fig. 3: 15) parts of blades,
including one bilateral (fig. 3: 5); five angled burins
on unmodified proximal (fig. 3: 16, 18) and distal
(fig. 3: 17) portions of blades; three burins on oblique
truncated proximal (fig. 3: 22) and medial (fig. 3: 19)
portions of blades, including one bilateral (fig. 3: 22);
one angled dihedral burin; and two combined burins,
including one angled bilaterally on an unmodified
proximal portion of the blade (fig. 3: 23) and one
angled dihedrally — dihedral symmetric (fig. 3: 21).
Dimensions: 2.3–5.0 cm in length, 1.3–2.6 cm in
width, and 0.3–1.2 cm in thickness.
One combined tool was recorded, an end-
scraper and angled burin created on a broken blade
(1.9 × 1.5 × 0.7 cm; fig. 3: 20).
Thirty-one retouched blades with marginal edge
retouch were found: 15 proximal (fig. 3: 10), nine
medial, and two distal portions; three medial portions
of crested and retouched blades (length 1.4–4.0 cm,
width 0.7–2.2 cm, and thickness 0.2–0.6 cm).
There are 35 notched blades and bladelets in
the assemblage, of which 11 display semi-steep
retouched notches. There is one crested blade
(fig. 4: 1), nine proximal (fig. 4: 2–7), and one medial
portion of blades and bladelets. The remainder (24 ar-
tefacts) have notches formed with single presses of
a retoucher: five blades (fig. 4: 9), eleven proximal
(fig. 4: 9, 10, 11), seven medial (fig. 4: 12), and one
distal portion (dimensions: 1.3–6.7 cm length, 0.8–
2.9 cm width, and 0.3–0.7 cm thickness).
The most informative part of the complex is asso-
ciated with hunting weapons. Geometric microliths
were represented by three mid-height asymmetrical
triangles, one of which has an abrupt retouched
notch on the short margin, and an abrupt bipolar
retouched notch on the longest margin (fig. 4: 13).
The dimension is 2.8 × 0.9 × 0.3 cm. Two mid-height
asymmetrical triangles have abrupt retouched sides
(2.0 × 1.0 × 0.5 and 2.1 × 0.8 × 0.2 cm; fig. 4: 14–15).
There are four backed pieces on bledelets with bi-
polar retouch, three of which were made from the me-
dial sections (dimensions: 4.2 × 1.0 × 0.5, and 1.5 ×
0.7 × 0.3; 1.7 × 0.7 х 0.4 cm; fig. 4: 16–17, 19); and
one from distal portion (1.0 × 0.7 × 0.2 cm; fig. 4: 18).
One abrupt retouched bladelet on a distal fragment
(2.1 × 1.0 × 0.3 cm; fig. 4: 20) and one oblique truncat-
ed blade (3.4 × 1.4 × 0.3 cm; fig. 4: 21) were identified.
Two unexpected artefacts in this assemblage
of hunting-related material were tanged projectile
points, which display diagnostic macrofractures di-
rectly associated with their usage as projectiles. There
are Amuk-type leaf-shaped points (fig. 4: 25) in ad-
dition to a Byblos point with a thin tang (dimensions:
4.1 × 1.0 × 0.3 cm; fig. 4: 24). Both points have tangs
formed by abrupt retouch and flat retouch on the
proximal portion of their ventral surfaces.
Two artefacts are interpreted as possible awls
resulting from the reuse and modification of end-
of-life tanged points (fig. 4: 22–23).
Modified pressure laminar pieces
A total of 90 modified pieces created on
pressure blades, bladelets, and microblades were
found in the complex of Layer 4 at Fatma Koba.
Five end-scrapers, three on intact blades
(fig. 5: 1–3) and two on blades with removed
proximal sections (fig. 5: 4–5). Length 1.4–
2.7 cm, width 1.2–1.8 cm, thickness 0.3–0.6 cm.
All scrapers have convex working edges, formed
with semi-steep scraper retouching. One of the
scrapers was formed from another end-scraper af-
ter its edge was broken (fig. 5: 4).
Twelve burins, including five angled on broken
(fig. 5: 6–8) and partial (fig. 5: 9–11) bladelets.
Two double-angled burins with diagonally
positioned negatives of spalls (fig. 5: 9–10); one
angled dihedral burin on a pressure blade, and
one double burin on an unmodified proximal por-
tion were found. Dimensions: length 1.3–4.2 cm,
width 0.7–1.1 cm, thickness 0.1–0.7 cm.
A total of 40 retouched blades and bladelets
includes only one bladelet with semi-steep retouch
(fig. 5: 13). Thirteen artefacts have marginally
retouched edges: one with a retouched blade and
12 medial (fig. 5: 12, 14) portions (length 1.2–5.7 cm,
width 0.8–1.4 cm, thickness 0.1–0.6 cm). Notched
blades and bladelets are represented by 24 examples.
A very interesting find includes the so-called
“ancoche”, a medial blade with diagonally
placed abrupt retouched notches (fig. 5: 16;
4.6 × 1.3 × 0.4 cm). Four proximal portions of
blades and bladelets (fig. 5: 15, 17) have semi-
steep retouched notches (2.1–7.5 × 0.6–1.2 × 0.2–
0.5 cm). Other notched blades, bladelets, and their
parts formed by a single retoucher press (19 artefacts,
including two proximal (fig. 5: 18), 15 medial
(fig. 5: 19–23), and two distal (fig. 5: 24) portions;
length 1.4–2.6 cm, width 0.7–1.2 cm, thickness 0.2–
0.5 cm).
One piercing, awl-like tool with semi-steep
convergent retouch (2.0 × 1.4 × 0.3 cm) was found.
Twenty-six geometric microliths on pressure
bladelets include 12 low asymmetric triangles and
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 110
Fig. 3. Fatma Koba, Layer 4. Tools on blades linked with direct percussion. 1–4 — scrapers; 5–23 — burins
14 trapezes. Among asymmetric triangles, one is
with an abrupt retouched notch on the short side, and
abrupt bipolar retouch on the long side (fig. 5: 25;
3.9 × 0.9 × 0.3 cm), and five with abrupt retouched
sides (fig. 5: 26–29, 40; 1.5–2.2 × 0.7–0.8 × 0.1 cm).
Fragments of six asymmetric triangles were also
found (fig. 5: 30–34, 39). Of 14 trapezes, one is
low, long, and symmetric with abrupt retouched
sides and two notches near a small base (fig. 5: 35;
3.0 × 1.0 × 0.2 cm); two low symmetric with
2 cm0 1
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 1 11
Fig. 4. Fatma Koba, Layer 4. Tools on blades linked with direct percussion. 1–12 — retouched and notched blades and bladelets;
13–21 — microliths; 22–23 — perforators (drills); 24–25 — tanged points
abrupt retouched sides and denticulated small bases
(fig. 5: 36–37; 2.1 × 0.8 × 0. cm and 1.7 × 0.8 × 0.1
cm); one low symmetric with abrupt retouched sides
and a small base (fig. 5: 38; 1.6 × 0.9 × 0.1 cm); sev-
en low symmetric (fig. 5: 44–49) trapezes, and two
asymmetric (fig. 5: 41–43) with abrupt retouched
sides (1.0–2.5 × 0.7–1.0 × 0.1 cm). All trapezes and
triangles display traces of use-related damage consis-
tent with projectiles.
Six artefacts belong to the non-geometric microliths
complex: one distal portion of an abruptly bipolarly
retouched microblade (fig. 5: 51; 2.4 × 0.4 × 0.3 cm);
one medial part with an abruptly retouched ventral
edge (fig. 5: 52; 1.9 × 0.7 × 0.2 cm); one truncated
2 cm
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 112
Fig. 5. Fatma Koba, Layer 4. Tools on blades linked with pressure blade technology
1
1615
14
1312
11
109
8
7
654
32
333231302928
27
26
2524
23
22
21
20
191817
48
4746
4544
43
42414039
38
37
36
3534
5352
54
51
5049
0 1 2 cm
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 1 13
facetted proximal (fig. 5: 53), and two medial
(fig. 5: 54) portions of bladelets (dimensions: 2.0–
4.2 × 0.7–1.0 × 0.1–0.3 cm); as well as one bi-trun-
cated facetted bladelet (fig. 5: 50; 2.2 × 0.8 × 0.1 cm).
Overall, Layer 4 can be divided into three sub-
assemblages. It is reasonable to assume that pressure
blades and bladelets are associated with the Murzak
Koba culture. Direct percussion blades and blade-
lets can be linked to the Shpan Koba culture. Tools
on flakes could belong to either cultural traditions.
These assumptions will be discussed in the next sec-
tion of the article.
Discussion of the Homogeneity of the Layer 4
Complex at the Fatma Koba Site
The question of the homogeneity of the Lay-
er 4 complex at the Fatma Koba site arises from
the simultaneous presence of two different lithic
reduction strategies and a considerable diversity in
the typology of modified pieces. Blades obtained
by direct percussion and pressure methods are
equally represented. Modified pieces associated
with pressed blades are marked by the presence of
trapezes, which are absent from the assemblage of
modified pieces produced on non-pressed blades.
At first glance, this might suggest that the mixed
nature of the Layer 4 complex has been convinc-
ingly demonstrated. However, a more detailed
comparison of the typology of modified pieces leads
to a more controversial conclusion. Certain types of
flint exhibit similarities in complexes associated
with different types of blanks. These materials can
hardly be interpreted as monocultural. At the same
time, radiocarbon evidence shows that the layer was
formed rapidly, suggesting intensive interaction
between representatives of different industries.
Two new dates were obtained recently during the
preparation of this article. These dates are associated
with the end of the Preboreal and the beginning of the
Boreal periods. One of the dates (FTMC-IH63-3 —
9542 ± 49 BP uncal — 9121–8736 BC cal) coincides
with previously obtained dates marking the onset of
the Span Koba culture (Яневич, 2019). The other date
(4 FTMC-IH63-4 — 9034 ± 52 BP uncal — 8292–
7973 BC cal) is slightly later and may be associated
with the emergence of pressure blade technology and
the transformation of the Shpan Koba culture into the
Murzak Koba culture. The series of scrapers shows
similarity. All scrapers are made on straight blades
with parallel edges, and all retouched working edges
are convex. Semi-steep flaking retouch was used to
shape the working edges.
The typology of burins, associated with
different types of blanks, is likewise similar across
both complexes. The most numerous are angle
burins on broken blades and bladelets. Dihedral
burins and burins on truncated facetted blades are
also present in both groups.
The presence of notched blades in the assemblage
is particularly noteworthy. Both types of blades (di-
rect and pressure) are associated with the production
of notched artefacts by means of a single pressing
method. Such notches occur not only on blades and
bladelets, but also on trapezes. Three trapezes bear
notches on a small proхimal base, which allows us
to consider the complexity of notched blades of both
types.
Complexes of non-geometric microliths linked
with different types of blanks are likewise similar.
Common microlith types include abrupt bipolar
retouched blades, abrupt retouched blades, and
truncated facetted blades. Geometric microliths also
display partial similarity: both blank types were
used to produce asymmetric triangles with abrupt
retouched or notched sides.
With which archaeological cultures should
these microliths be associated? Geometric and non-
geometric microliths produced on non-pressure blades
are traditionally attributed to the Shpan Koba culture,
while the same microliths produced on pressure blades
are associated with the Murzak Koba culture. Overall,
this general similarity indicates that the Shpan Koba
and Murzak Koba cultures represent the same cultural
tradition. We argue that the introduction of pressure
blade technology led to the transformation of the
Shpan Koba industry. Unfortunately, the material from
Layer 4 does not allow for arranging it by deposition-
al depth. Microliths that can be associated with one of
the cultures are found at both the top and bottom of
the layer. This may be the result of washout processes
affecting the deposit. Alternatively, the transformation
of the Shpankobian industry may not have involved
a sudden shift in flaking techniques or microlith
typology. Archaic features may have coexisted with
innovative technology for some time.
The transformation of the Shpankobian industry
into the Murzakkobian industry, driven by changes in
blade production technology, was a widespread phe-
nomenon in the Early Holocene. This process can be
traced across regions associated with the Trialetian
industry. S. K. Kozlowski (1999) described this
industry in detail, associating it with Asia Minor, the
eastern, southern, and western coasts of the Caspian
Sea, and the South Caucasus. The main features of
the Trialetian industry were as follows:
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 114
Types of artefacts Number Percentage
Cores linked with direct or indirect percussion 2 0.19 %
Cores linked with pressing flaking 2 0.19 %
Core fragments 23 2.19 %
Crested blades 6 0.57 %
Blades (lw dp*) 21 2.00 %
Proximal blade fragments (lw dp*) 14 1.33 %
Medial blade fragments (lw dp*) 3 0.29 %
Distal blade fragments (lw dp*) 5 0.48 %
Bladelets (lw dp*) 9 0.86 %
Proximal bladelet fragments (lw dp*) 2 0.19 %
Medial bladelet fragments (lw dp*) 0 0.00 %
Distal bladelet fragments (lw dp*) 3 0.29 %
Blades (lw pf**) 0 0.00 %
Proximal blade fragments (lw pf**) 9 0.86 %
Medial blade fragments (lw pf**) 1 0.10 %
Distal blade fragments (lw pf**) 1 0.10 %
Bladelets (lw pf**) 13 1.24 %
Proximal bladelet fragments (lw pf**) 14 1.33 %
Medial bladelet fragments (lw pf**) 27 2.57 %
Distal bladelet fragments (lw pf**) 11 1.05 %
Microblades (lw pf**) 2 0.19 %
Proximal microblade fragments (lw pf**) 5 0.48 %
Medial microblade fragments (lw pf**) 2 0.19 %
Distal microblade fragments (lw pf**) 2 0.19 %
Corticated flakes (≥75% of the cortex) 28 2.67 %
Corticated flakes (<75% of the cortex) 41 3.90 %
Non-corticated flakes 391 37.24 %
Chunks 186 17.71 %
Burin spalls 13 1.24 %
Modified pieces 214 20.38 %
Total 1050 100.00 %
(lw dip*) Linked with direct and indirect percussion.
(lw pf**) Linked with pressure flaking.
Table 1. Fatma-Koba. Lithic artefacts from Layer 4. Absolute number and percentages are given
- the use of direct and indirect percussion
methods in the reduction of cores;
- the presence of asymmetric triangles;
- the presence of truncated faceted blades;
- the presence of symmetric triangles;
- the use of the microburin technique.
It should be noted that not all sites display all
of these characteristics, but both the Shpankobian
and Murzakkobian industries can be assigned to the
Trialetian group. The Shpankobian industry shows
particularly close parallels with sites in the South
Caucasus. The site of Kotias Klde (Meshveliani
et al. 2007) is almost identical to the Shpankobian
complexes in Crimea. The chronological unity of the
Trialetian sites of Crimea and the Caucasus has been
described in detail (Manko, Chkhatarashvili 2022).
Here, we will highlight one unique parallel: the
presence of bladelets with bipolar retouched edges,
a feature characteristic only of Trialetian cultures
in the Caucasus and Crimea, and associated with
the influence of later Imeretian cultural traditions.
Trialetian industries in other regions also demonstrate
technological development associated with the
emergence of the pressure technique. Evidence of
this technique has been documented at Darkveti
(Layer 5) (Nebieridze 1978) and Chokh (Layer C)
(Amirkhanov 1987). Thus, we can trace the parallel
development of Trialetian cultures in Crimea, the
South Caucasus, and the western Caspian region.
It is therefore necessary to identify the origin from
which the Shpan Koba industry acquired pressure
blade technology. The Kukrek culture initially ap-
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 1 15
Table 2. Fatma Koba. Modified pieces from Layer 4
Modified pieces On
flakes % On
blades % On pressure
blades % Total %
Scrapers 1 6.67 % 4 3.67 % 5 5.56 % 10 4.67 %
Burins 6 40.00 % 25 22.94 % 12 13.33 % 43 20.09 %
Retouched flakes 2 13.33 % 0 0.00 % 0 0.00 % 2 0.93 %
Notched flakes 6 40.00 % 0 0.00 % 0 0.00 % 6 2.80 %
Combined tool 0 0.00 % 1 0.92 % 0 0.00 % 1 0.47 %
Retouched blades 0 0.00 % 31 28.44 % 14 15.56 % 35 16.36 %
Notched blades 0 0.00 % 35 32.11 % 24 26.67 % 59 27.57 %
Piercing tool 0 0.00 % 0 0.00 % 1 1.11 % 1 0.47 %
Burinated pieces 0 0.00 % 0 0.00 % 2 2.22 % 2 0.93 %
Triangles 0 0.00 % 3 2.75 % 12 13.33 % 15 7.01 %
Trapezes 0 0.00 % 0 0.00 % 14 15.56 % 14 6.54 %
Backed bipolar blades 0 0.00 % 4 3.67 % 1 1.11 % 5 2.34 %
Backed blades 0 0.00 % 1 0.92 % 1 1.11 % 2 0.93 %
Oblique truncated facetted
blades 0 0.00 % 1 0.92 % 4 4.44 % 5 2.34 %
Tanged point 0 0.00 % 2 1.84 % 0 0.00 % 2 0.94 %
Awls 0 0.00 % 2 1.83 % 0 0.00 % 2 0.93 %
Total 15 100.00 % 109 100.00 % 90 100.00 % 214 100.00 %
pears to be a plausible candidate, as both cultures
coexisted in Crimea during the Preboreal-Boreal
period. However, the Kukrek culture can be exclud-
ed for several reasons. Firstly, Kukrekian bullet-
like cores are absent from Layer 4 at Fatma-Koba.
Secondly, the long coexistence does not correlate
with the spread of pressure blade technology in
early Shpan Koba complexes. Moreover, the Kukrek
pressure blade technology was associated with the
production of grooved wooden tools used to hold
cores that were very difficult to replicate.
Who, or what, mediated this transition? Low
symmetrical trapezes with abruptly retouched sides
occur in Layer 4. This type of trapeze is known
from south-eastern Europe in the Hrebenyky and
Matviiv Kurgan cultures, and from the southern
and central Caucasus in the complexes of Darkveti
culture (Manko, Chkhatarashvili 2022). It seems
reasonable to assume that the westward movement
of the Darkvetian population could have led to
the emergence of a new centre of pressure flaking
distribution in the south of Eastern Europe.
The westward movement of the Darkvetian
population (Manko, Chkhatarasvili 2022) is
supported by absolute chronology. Layer 4 (М1) at
Sosruko dates to the first half of the Boreal and yield-
ed trapezes on pressure blades as well as tongue-like
cores (Леонова 2021). All of these artefacts have
close analogues in Layer 4 at Fatma-Koba, which is
also dated to the first half of the Boreal.
Low symmetrical trapezes with abruptly re-
touched sides have been recorded in numerous Crim-
ean complexes, including Layer 3 at Shan Koba,
Layer 3 at Murzak Koba, Layers 4 and 3 at Fatma
Koba, and several sites on the Kerch peninsula.
It should be noted that such trapezes are always
accompanied by Murzak Koba culture materials.
Whether a synthesis of Murzak Koba and
Darkveti cultural traditions took place remains
unclear. It is possible that during the second half
of the Boreal period, both cultural traditions were
distributed across the same territory, used the same
campsites, and maintained close contacts. The
technological innovations of the Darkveti culture
transformed the Shpankobian industry.
Supporting evidence can be found in the material
from Fatma Koba and Murzak Koba excavated
by H. A. Bonch-Osmolovskyi. Excavations in the
1950s were not always sufficiently precise. For
example, Layer 4 at Fatma Koba was investigated
as a single unit, whereas H. A. Bonch-Osmolovskyi
divided the lithological layers into horizons, which
allowed for more detailed observations.
Layers 4.3 and 4.1 at Fatma Cave, Lay-
ers 4, 3.4, and 3.2 at Murzak Koba (excavated by
H. A. Bonch-Osmolovskyi) yielded only trapezes.
At the same time, Layers 4.2 at Fatma Cave, 3.3
and 3.1 at Murzak Koba, contained the full range
of hunting weapons, asymmetrical triangles, etc.
It should be noted that the term “Murzak Koba
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 116
Table 3. Radiocarbon dates
№ Date uncal
BP Lab. No. Material Date cal BC Site Context Culture Publication
1. 9542 ± 49 FTMC-IH63-3 Bone 9121–8736 Fatma Koba Layer 4 Shpan Koba In first
2. 9034 ± 52 FTMC-IH63-4 Bone 8292–7973 Fatma Koba Layer 4
Shpan Koba /
Murzak Koba
transition
In first
3. 9363±73 KIA-9570 Bone 9043-8348 Shan Koba Layer 4 Shpan Koba Biagi at al. 2014
4. 9575±45 GrA-50244 Bone 9193-8767 Shan Koba Layer 4 Shpan Koba Benecke 2006
5. 9560± 50 КІА-3589 Bone 9191-8753 Shpan Koba Layer 2-1 Shpan Koba Яневич 2019
6. 9150± 150 ГИН-5276 Bone 8798-7868 Shpan Koba Layer 2-3 Shpan Koba Яневич 2019
7. 9790± 50 КІА-3688 Bone 9362-9161 Shpan Koba Layer 2-4 Shpan Koba Яневич 2019
8. 9730± 50 КІА-3687 Bone 9299-8878 Shpan Koba Layer 2-5 Shpan Koba Яневич 2019
9. 9760± 60 КІА-3686 Bone 9327-8867 Shpan Koba Layer 3-2 Shpan Koba Яневич 2019
10. 9890± 80 Кі-5824 Bone 9741-9237 Shpan Koba Layer 3-2 Shpan Koba Яневич 2019
11. 9930± 60 КІА-3685 Bone 9739-9271 Shpan Koba Layer 3-4 Shpan Koba Яневич 2019
12. 9840± 50 КІА-3684 Bone 9444-9236 Shpan Koba Layer 3-5 Shpan Koba Яневич 2019
13. 9940± 50 КІА-3683 Bone 9734-9289 Shpan Koba Layer 3-6 Shpan Koba Яневич 2019
14. 8357± 52 KIA-9571 Bone 7573-7194 Shan Koba Layer 3.3 Murzak Koba,
early phase Benecke 2006
15. 8625± 40 GrA-35704 Bone 7734-7584 Laspi 7 Murzak Koba,
early phase Яневич 2019
16. 8620± 40 GrA-35703 Bone 7735-7582 Laspi 7 Murzak Koba,
early phase Яневич 2019
17. 10400±60 RTT-4703 Bone 10648-10047 Kotias Klde Trialetian Meshveliani et al.
2007
18. 9270± 60 RTT-4698 Bone 8693-8304 Kotias Klde Trialetian Meshveliani et al.
2007
19. 10120±30 IGANAMS-8441 Bone 9927-9458 Chokh Layer D Trialetian Амирханов 2022
20. 10410±30 IGANAMS-8112 Bone 10635-10149 Chokh Layer D Trialetian Амирханов 2022
21. 10470±30 IGANAMS-8443 Bone 10670-10244 Chokh Layer E Trialetian Амирханов 2022
22. 8170± 25 IGANAMS-9876 Bone 7316-7066 Sosruko Layer M1(4) Darkveti
culture Леонова 2021
23. 8940± 30 IGANAMS-7987 Bone 8254-7962 Sosruko Layer M1(4) Darkveti
culture Леонова 2021
24. 8780± 170 LU-9167 Bone 8288-7543 Sosruko Layer M1(4) Darkveti
culture
Golovamova et
al. 2020
* INTCAL20 terrestrial (Northern Hemisphere) calibration curve (Reimer et al. 2020). OxCal 4.4.4 (© Christopher Bronk Ramsey 2025).
culture” may encompass at least two interstratified
phenomena. It is also likely that Layer 3 at Shan
Koba consists of several layers. The excavations did
not allow us to identify clean layers. Nevertheless,
the presence of seven trapezes of the Darkvetian
type in Layer 3.4 of Shan Koba should be noted.
The presence of low trapezes in some complexes of
the Murzak Koba culture likely reflects the coexistence
of two technological traditions. Darkvetian groups or
Darkvetian technological traditions may have spread
widely into the steppe zone, where the Hrebenyky and
Matviiv Kurgan cultures developed.
In conclusion, the Layer 4 complex at Fatma
Koba reflects the interaction between the Shpan-
kobian/Murzakkobian and Darkvetian groups. The
influence of the Darkvetian culture led to a sig-
nificant transformation of the Shpan Koba lithic
industry, which resulted in the emergence of the
Murzak Koba culture. This transformation was
driven by the adoption of Darkvetian pressure bla-
de technology methods. However, the introduction
of new methods for producing blades did not result
in any changes to the overall typology.
It is possible that during the late Preboreal
and early Boreal periods, the site was used either
simultaneously or alternately by people of different
cultural traditions. Alternatively, cultural ties may
have been established between different population
groups during the joint use of the site, leading to the
transformation of the Shpankobian industry.
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 1 17
Conclusions
The transformation of the Shpan Koba culture
occurred over a very short period at the end of the
Preboreal and during the first half of the Boreal. Dur-
ing this period, the spread of pressure blade tech-
nology methods is recorded in all regions, without
exception, associated with the development of this
culture. This circumstance allows us to assert that the
global information network continued to exist dur-
ing this time.
The cultural influence of the Darkvetian (Hre-
benyky) culture was associated with the spread of
pressure blade technology methods in the Crimea.
The development of Murzak Koba culture in
the Crimea probably continued until the beginning
of the Atlantic period, as evidenced by the pres-
ence of asymmetrical triangles in Layer 3 at
Fatma-Koba. Murzakkobian materials occur here
within the same lithological layer as those of the
Tash Air culture.
The Shpan Koba and Murzak Koba cultures
were part of the Trialetian culture, which existed
from the 10th to the 8th millennium BC across Asia
Minor, the Eastern, Southern, and Western Caspian
regions, the Southern Caucasus, the Crimea, and
the Dnipro rapids region.
Acknowledgment
The authors express their sincere gratitude to
John W. Kiernan, Master Sergeant, United States Air
Force (Retired), Master of Arts, Experimental Archae-
ology, for his constructive comments and careful editing
of the manuscript. We thank the Vilnius Radiocarbon
Laboratory for dating the samples from Fatma Koba.
Received 04.07.2025
Амирханов, Х. А. 1987. Чохское поселение, человек и
его культура в мезолите и неолите горного Дагестана.
Москва: Наука.
Бибиков, С. Н. 1966. Раскопки в навесе Фатьма-Коба
и некоторые вопросы изучения мезолита Крыма. В: Гури-
на, Н. Н. (отв. ред.). Материалы и исследования по архео-
логии СССР, 126. Москва: Наука, с. 138-143.
Бибиков, С. Н., Станко, В. Н., Коен, В. Ю. 1994. Финальный
палеолит и мезолит Горного Крыма. Одесса: Весть.
Бонч-Осмоловский, Г. А. 1934. Итоги изучения
крымского палеолита. Труды ІІ междунар. конф. Ассоци-
ации по изучению четвертичного периода Европы, V. Мо-
сква; Ленинград; Новосибирск: Гос. Научн.-техн. горно-
геолого-нефтяное изд-во, с. 114-183.
Леонова, Е. В. 2021. Грот Сосруко: ревизия мате-
риалов из раскопок С. Н. Замятнина и радиоуглерод-
ная хронология верхних слоев каменного века. Camera
Praehistorica, 1, с. 101-119. https://doi.org/10.31250/2658-
3828-2021-1-101-11910.31250/2658-3828-2021-1-101-119
Телегін, Д. Я. 1982. Мезолітичні пам’ятки України.
Київ: Наукова думка.
Яневич, О. О. 2019. Радіовуглецева хронологія фіналь-
ного палеоліту, мезоліту та неоліту Криму в археологіч-
ному та палеоекологічному контекстах. Vita Antiqua, 11,
с. 116-137. https://doi.org/10.37098/VA-2019-11-116-137
Benecke, N. 2006. Zur Datierung der Faunensequenz am
Abri San-Koba (Krim, Ukraine). Beitrage zur Archäozoologie
und Prähistorischen Anthropologie, 5, p. 12-15
Biagi, P., Khlopachev, G.A., Kiosak, D.V. 2014. The
radiocarbon chronology of Shan-Koba rock-shelter, a
Late Palaeolithic and Mesolithic sequence in the Crimean
Mountains (Ukraine). Diadora, 28, p. 7-20
Kozłowski, S. K. 1999. The Eastern Wing of Fertile
Crescent: Late Prehistory of Great Mesopotamian Lithic
Industries. Oxford: BAR International Series.
Manko, V., Chkhatarashvili, G. 2022. Transcaucasia and
Neolithic of South of Eastern Europe. Arheologia, 2, p. 19-52.
https://doi.org/10.15407/arheologia2022.02.019
Meshveliani, T., Bar-Oz, G., Bar-Yosef, O., Belfer-
Cohen, A., Boareto, E., Jakeli, N., Koridze, E., Matskevich, Z.
2007. Mesolithic Hunters at Kotias Klde in Western Georgia:
Preliminary Results. Paleorient, 33 (2), p. 47-58.
ნებიერიძე, ლ. 1978. დარკვეთის მრავალფენიანი
ეხი. თბილისი: მეცნიერება.
Pelegrin, J. 2012. New Experimental Observations for the
Characterization of Pressure Blade Production Techniques.
In: Des-rosiers, P. (ed.). The Emergence of Pressure Blade
Making from Origin to Modern Experimentation. New York:
Springer, p. 237-259.
Reimer, P., Austin, W., Bard, E., Bayliss, A., Blackwell, P.,
Bronk Ramsey, C., Butzin, M., Cheng, H., Edwards, R., Friedrich,
M., Grootes, P., Guilderson, T., Hajdas, I., Heaton, T., Hogg, A.,
Hughen, K., Kromer, B., Manning, S., Muscheler, R., Palmer, J.,
Pearson, C., van der Plicht, J., Reimer, R., Richards, D., Scott,
E., Southon, J., Turney, C., Wacker, L., Adolphi, F., Büntgen,
U., Capano, M., Fahrni, S., Fogtmann-Schulz, A., Friedrich, R.,
Köhler, P., Kudsk, S., Miyake, F., Olsen, J., Reinig, F., Sakamoto,
M., Sookdeo, A., & Talamo, S. 2020. The IntCal20 Northern
Hemisphere radiocarbon age calibration curve (0–55 cal kBP).
Radiocarbon, 62, p. 725-757. doi:10.1017/RDC.2020.41
Валерій О. Манько1, Сергій А. Теліженко2
1Кандидат історичних наук, старший науковий співробітник, Інститут археології НАН України, відділ археології Кри-
му та Північно-Західного Причорномор'я, ORCID: 0000-0002-2990-7234, Valery_Manko@ yahoo.com
2Кандидат історичних наук, старший науковий співробітник, Інститут археології НАН України, відділ археології Кри-
му та Північно-Західного Причорномор'я, ORCID: 0000-0003-1677-4900, telizharh@hotmail.com
КРЕМ’ЯНИЙ КОМПЛЕКС ШАРУ 4 СТОЯНКИ ФАТЬМА КОБА, КРИМ УКРАЇНА
Розкопки стоянки Фатьма Коба відбувалися у 1927 р. під керівництвом Г. А. Бонч-Осмоловського та у 1956–1958 рр. під
керівництвом С. M. Бібікова. Колекція 1927 р. зберігається у Петербурзі й наразі недоступна для вивчення. Статтю присвячено
аналізу колекції 1956–1958 рр., що зберігається у наукових фондах археологічного музею Інституту археології НАН України.
ISSN 0235-3490 (Print), ISSN 2616-499X (Online). Археологія, 2026, № 118
Культурний шар 4 формувався протягом бореального періоду голоцену як результат відвідування стоянки носіями
різних культурних традицій, які проживали на території Криму одночасно. Є сліди тимчасового перебування на місці
стоянки носіїв кримської свідерської, кукрецької та гребениківської культур. Основу ж комплексу складають матеріали,
які належать до шпанкобинської та мурзаккобинської культур. Відкладення культурного шару відбувалося протягом
досить тривалого часу, тому основним завданням аналізу було відокремлення шпанкобинських та мурзаккобинських
артефактів. З цією метою здійснено аналіз крем’яних артефактів, виготовлених із різних типів заготовок та відходів
виробництва: відщепів та пластинчастих заготовок, отриманих методом ручного відтиску.
Враховуючи той факт, що ранні шпанкобинські комплекси не були пов’язані з використанням відтискної техніки,
вдалося відносно коректно розділити знаряддя двох археологічних культур. Порівняння знарядь на звичайних та відтискних
пластинах показало, що типологія комплексів є абсолютно подібною. Особливо показовим було порівняння мікролітичних
комплексів, які продемонстрували морфологічну й типологічну подібності.
Отримані дані типологічного аналізу дозволили зробити висновок, що мурзаккобинська культура пов’язана
походженням із шпанкобинською. Трансформація шпанкобинської культури відбулася під впливом міграційної
активності даркветського населення Пінічного Кавказу, які з’явилися на території Криму в середині Бореалу.
К л ю ч о в і с л о в а: Крим, ранній голоцен, ериалетська індустрія, відтискна техніка, асиметричні трикутники, бі-
полярна ретуш, міграції, мережа взаємодії.
References
Amirkhanov, Kh. A. 1987. Chokhskoe poselenie, chelovek i ego kultura v mezolite i neolite gornogo Dagestana. Moscow:
Nauka.
Bibikov, S. N. 1966. Raskopki v navese Fatma-Koba i nekotorye voprosy izucheniia mezolita Kryma. In: Gurina, N. N. (ed.).
Materialy i issledovaniia po arkheologii SSSR, 126. Moscow: Nauka, p. 138-143.
Bibikov, S. N., Stanko, V. N., Koen, V. Iu. 1994. Finalnyi paleolit i mezolit Gornogo Kryma. Odesa: Vest.
Bonch-Osmolovskii, G. A. 1934. Itogi izucheniia krymskogo paleolita. Trudy ІІ mezhdunar. konf. Assotsiatsii po izucheniiu chetvertichnogo
perioda Evropy, V. Moscow; Leningrad; Novosibirsk: Gos. Nauchn.-tekhn. gorno-geologo-neftianoe izd-vo, p. 114-183.
Leonova, E. V. 2021 Sosruco Rockshelter: Revision of Materials of the Excavation by S. N. Zamiatnin and the Upper Horizons
Radiocarbon Chronology. Camera Praehistorica, 1, p. 101-119. https://doi.org/10.31250/2658-3828-2021-1-101-119
Telehin, D. Ya. 1982. Mezolitychni pamiatky Ukrainy. Kyiv: Naukova dumka.
Yanevych, O. O. 2019. Radiocarbon Chronology of the Final Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic of Crimea, Ukraine, in the
Archaeological and Palaeoecological Contexts. Vita Antiqua, 11, p. 116-137. https://doi.org/10.37098/VA-2019-11-116-137
Benecke, N. 2006. Zur Datierung der Faunensequenz am Abri San-Koba (Krim, Ukraine). Beitrage zur Archäozoologie und
Prähistorischen Anthropologie, 5, p. 12-15;
Biagi, P., Khlopachev, G.A., Kiosak, D.V. 2014. The Radiocarbon Chronology of Shan-Koba Rock-Shelter, a Late Palaeolithic
and Mesolithic Sequence in the Crimean Mountains (Ukraine). Diadora, 28, p. 7-20;
Kozłowski, S. K. 1999. The Eastern Wing of Fertile Crescent: Late Prehistory of Great Mesopotamian Lithic Industries. Oxford:
BAR International Series.
Manko, V., Chkhatarashvili, G. 2022. Transcaucasia and Neolithic of South of Eastern Europe. Arheologia, 2, p. 19-52. https://
doi.org/10.15407/arheologia2022.02.019
Meshveliani, T., Bar-Oz, G., Bar-Yosef, O., Belfer-Cohen, A., Boareto, E., Jakeli, N., Koridze, E., Matskevich, Z. 2007.
Mesolithic Hunters at Kotias Klde in Western Georgia: Preliminary Results. Paleorient, 33 (2), p. 47-58.
Nebieridze, L. 1978. Multilayer Rock Shelter Darkveti. Tbilisi: Metsniereba.
Pelegrin, J. 2012. New Experimental Observations for the Characterization of Pressure Blade Production Techniques.
In: Desrosiers, P. (ed.). The Emergence of Pressure Blade Making from Origin to Modern Experimentation. New York:
Springer, p. 237-259.
Reimer, P., Austin, W., Bard, E., Bayliss, A., Blackwell, P., Bronk Ramsey, C., Butzin, M., Cheng, H., Edwards, R., Friedrich,
M., Grootes, P., Guilderson, T., Hajdas, I., Heaton, T., Hogg, A., Hughen, K., Kromer, B., Manning, S., Muscheler,
R., Palmer, J., Pearson, C., van der Plicht, J., Reimer, R., Richards, D., Scott, E., Southon, J., Turney, C., Wacker, L.,
Adolphi, F., Büntgen, U., Capano, M., Fahrni, S., Fogtmann-Schulz, A., Friedrich, R., Köhler, P., Kudsk, S., Miyake, F.,
Olsen, J., Reinig, F., Sakamoto, M., Sookdeo, A., & Talamo, S. 2020. The IntCal20 Northern Hemisphere radiocarbon age
calibration curve (0–55 cal kBP). Radiocarbon, 62, p. 725-757. doi:10.1017/RDC.2020.41
|
| id | arheologia-com-ua-article-437 |
| institution | Chemistry, Physics and Technology of Surface |
| issn | 2616-499X |
| keywords_txt_mv | |
| language | English |
| last_indexed | 2026-08-07T01:06:15Z |
| publishDate | 2026 |
| publisher | Institute of Archaeology NAS of Ukraine |
| record_format | ojs |
| resource_txt_mv | arheologiacomua/54/ac5d067e0db5f00c55f7ade873f99254.pdf |
| spelling | arheologia-com-ua-article-4372026-03-21T11:40:41Z Flint Artefacts of Layer 4 at the Fatma Koba Site, Cimea, Ukraine Крем’яний комплекс шару 4 стоянки Фатьма Коба, Крим, Україна Manko, V. O. Telizhenko, S. A. Crimea, Early Holocene, Trialeti industry, pressure lamellar technology, asymmetric triangles, bipolar retouch, migrations, networks. Крим, ранній голоцен, ериалетська індустрія, відтискна техніка, асиметричні трикутники, біполярна ретуш, міграції, мережа взаємодії. The Early Holocene complex of Layer 4 at the Fatma Koba is associated with a change from the Shpan Koba to the Murzak Koba culture. The change is marked by the appearance of pressure lamellar technology. The beginning of the transformation relates to the migration of Darkveti population from the South Caucasus. It is significant that the change in the technology of knapping did not lead to a change in the typology of the complex of modified pieces. Розкопки стоянки Фатьма Коба відбувалися у 1927&nbsp;р. під керівництвом Г.&nbsp;А.&nbsp;Бонч-Осмоловського та у 1956–1958&nbsp;рр. під керівництвом С.&nbsp;M.&nbsp;Бібікова. Колекція 1927&nbsp;р. зберігається у Петербурзі й наразі недоступна для вивчення. Статтю присвячено аналізу колекції 1956–1958&nbsp;рр., що зберігається у наукових фондах археологічного музею Інституту археології НАН&nbsp;України.Культурний шар&nbsp;4 формувався протягом бореального періоду голоцену як результат відвідування стоянки носіями різних культурних традицій, які проживали на території Криму одночасно. Є сліди тимчасового перебування на місці стоянки носіїв кримської свідерської, кукрецької та гребениківської культур. Основу ж комплексу складають матеріали, які належать до шпанкобинської та мурзаккобинської культур. Відкладення культурного шару відбувалося протягом досить тривалого часу, тому основним завданням аналізу було відокремлення шпанкобинських та мурзаккобинських артефактів. З цією метою здійснено аналіз крем’яних артефактів, виготовлених із різних типів заготовок та відходів виробництва: відщепів та пластинчастих заготовок, отриманих методом ручного відтиску.Враховуючи той факт, що ранні шпанкобинські комплекси не були пов’язані з використанням відтискної техніки, вдалося відносно коректно розділити знаряддя двох археологічних культур. Порівняння знарядь на звичайних та відтискних пластинах показало, що типологія комплексів є абсолютно подібною. Особливо показовим було порівняння мікролітичних комплексів, які продемонстрували морфологічну й типологічну подібності.Отримані дані типологічного аналізу дозволили зробити висновок, що мурзаккобинська культура пов’язана походженням із шпанкобинською. Трансформація шпанкобинської культури відбулася під впливом міграційної активності даркветського населення Пінічного Кавказу, які з’явилися на території Криму в середині Бореалу. Institute of Archaeology NAS of Ukraine 2026-03-15 Article Article application/pdf https://arheologia.com.ua/index.php/arheologia/article/view/437 10.15407/archaeologyua2026.01.005 Arheologia; No 1 (2026): Arheologia; 5-17 Археологія ; № 1 (2026): Археологія; 5-17 Археология; № 1 (2026): Arheologia; 5-17 2616-499X 0235-3490 uk https://arheologia.com.ua/index.php/arheologia/article/view/437/453 Copyright (c) 2026 Arheologia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/legalcode.en |
| spellingShingle | Крим ранній голоцен ериалетська індустрія відтискна техніка асиметричні трикутники біполярна ретуш міграції мережа взаємодії. Manko, V. O. Telizhenko, S. A. Крем’яний комплекс шару 4 стоянки Фатьма Коба, Крим, Україна |
| title | Крем’яний комплекс шару 4 стоянки Фатьма Коба, Крим, Україна |
| title_alt | Flint Artefacts of Layer 4 at the Fatma Koba Site, Cimea, Ukraine |
| title_full | Крем’яний комплекс шару 4 стоянки Фатьма Коба, Крим, Україна |
| title_fullStr | Крем’яний комплекс шару 4 стоянки Фатьма Коба, Крим, Україна |
| title_full_unstemmed | Крем’яний комплекс шару 4 стоянки Фатьма Коба, Крим, Україна |
| title_short | Крем’яний комплекс шару 4 стоянки Фатьма Коба, Крим, Україна |
| title_sort | крем’яний комплекс шару 4 стоянки фатьма коба, крим, україна |
| topic | Крим ранній голоцен ериалетська індустрія відтискна техніка асиметричні трикутники біполярна ретуш міграції мережа взаємодії. |
| topic_facet | Crimea Early Holocene Trialeti industry pressure lamellar technology asymmetric triangles bipolar retouch migrations networks. Крим ранній голоцен ериалетська індустрія відтискна техніка асиметричні трикутники біполярна ретуш міграції мережа взаємодії. |
| url | https://arheologia.com.ua/index.php/arheologia/article/view/437 |
| work_keys_str_mv | AT mankovo flintartefactsoflayer4atthefatmakobasitecimeaukraine AT telizhenkosa flintartefactsoflayer4atthefatmakobasitecimeaukraine AT mankovo kremânijkompleksšaru4stoânkifatʹmakobakrimukraína AT telizhenkosa kremânijkompleksšaru4stoânkifatʹmakobakrimukraína |