Abstract/Summary

In this paper the bifacial tool types from the last glacial cycle (MIS 5d–3) in continental Northwestern Europe are analysed. Firstly, a framework in which the different bifacial elements are defined is created. This is done in order to anticipate any epistemological problems related to the studied assemblages being described by different academic traditions and methods. Secondly, it is established which taxonomic entities are present in Western and Central Europe and if they are characterised by specific bifacial elements. It is demonstrated that at least three technocomplexes can be distinguished: Mousterian of Acheulean Tradition (small, symmetric cordiform and triangular handaxes), Micoquian or Keilmessergruppe (asymmetric, non-covering retouched and sometimes rather thick bifaces, often with backing, e.g. Keilmesser, Faustkeilblätter, Halbkeile and Fäustel), and a leaf point industry. Subsequently, it is shown that bifacial elements, including typical Micoquian types, are more common in continental Northwestern Europe than previously thought. At several sites in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Western and Northern France both typical Micoquian and Mousterian bifacial elements occur, leaving a typological dilemma as to which technocomplex they should be assigned. Finally, these mixed assemblages are defined, and statistical analyses prove they differ from the Mousterian and Micoquian.