There is disclosed compounds of the formula ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 represents a methyl or acetonyl group and R.sup.2 represents a hydrogen atom, a hydroxyl group or a group of the formula ##STR2## and a process for the preparation thereof. The compounds are useful as intermediates for the preparation of anthracycline antibiotics and certain of the compounds exhibit per se activity as antibacterial and antitumor agents.