Stone Reduction and Lithic Raw Material Patterns at Tham Long Rockshelter, Laos

Ladislav Nejman1*, Nicholas Skopal1,2, Dávid Demko3, Marisa Giorgi4, Souliya Bounxaythip5, and Tate Devantier-Thomas2

Tham Long is a recently excavated limestone rockshelter in the Houaphanh Province, northeastern Laos. Analysis of its stratified lithic sequence reveals distinctive patterns in reduction strategies and raw material use. Across all investigated phases, assemblages show exclusive reliance on locally obtained lithic materials and an absence of retouched flakes. Reduction sequences are usually short. Raw material data indicate a focus on local siliceous rocks alongside intensive knapping of limestone. Both bipolar and freehand percussion techniques were employed, with bipolar reduction used primarily for limestone. This sustained emphasis on limestone knapping appears unusual, as published studies of Southeast Asian caves and rockshelters report limestone knapping and limestone artefacts as uncommon. Similarities and differences of the Tham Long sequence to the Hoabinhian industry are also discussed.