Abstract A stereoselective synthesis of the complete C1–C16 framework of tianchimycins A and B is described. Key transformations include Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons, Evans aldol, Gilman’s and stereoselective alkylation reactions. A stereoselective synthesis of the complete C1–C16 framework of tianchimycins A and B is described. Key transformations include Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons, Evans aldol, Gilman’s