Search

In this work, the biodeterioration caused by lichens growing on lithic archaeological artifacts from La Primavera was analyzed. The methodology includes observation techniques of low and high magnifications and EDAX analysis. The lichens present were identified and the surfaces of the lithic artifacts where they grow were observed. We identified and analyzed the diversity of species present and recognized four types of bioalterations (micropitting, superficial weathering, internal micro-fractures and superficial micro-fractures). Among the identified morphotypes, which apparently causes the most damage is the crustose endolithic, followed by foliose. The bioalterations registered hinder the observation of the main technological characteristics as well as specific studies on the functionality of the artifacts, what in turn results in information loss. Knowing more in detail how these bioalterations affect the lithic materials is relevant for the archaeological interpretations. Therefore, this work is an important contribution to the study of biodeterioration in lithic artifacts that has not been the subject of specific investigations before. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Espanola de Antropologia Americana is the property of Universidad Complutense de Madrid and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The main objective of this study is the macroscopic and microscopic petrographic analysis of lithic materials recovered from the sites of Villavil and Villavil 2 (Hualfín, Catamarca, Argentina). The results obtained from this analysis allowed for the identification of the raw materials used in the manufacture of artifacts associated with Regional Developments/ Inka Period (ca. 900 to 1400 A.D.) occupations. Based on regional geological information, we are able to posit the source locations of these raw materials. This allows for a discussion of previous hypotheses regarding practices of lithic procurement in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Espanola de Antropologia Americana is the property of Universidad Complutense de Madrid and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The main objective of this paper is to improve the knowledge of the ancient activities in the site of Villavil, located in the northern Hualfin Valley, Catamarca, Argentina. The techno-morphology, functional ceramic characteristics, and lithic material associated to ceramic production from one structure forming the archaeological site (Rectangular Structure 1) has been analyzed. These results have helped to better understand the different stages of ceramic production and the lithic elements that would have been part of the manufacturing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the archaeological excavations and projects undertaken in the Las Pailas site in Cachi, Salta, Argentina. The author comments on the understanding of the cultural and religious rites and practices among the native population, known as the Huanca, based on the discovery of various pre-hispanic antiquities. Particular focus is given to pieces of ceramics and pottery at the sites, which depict unique decorative styling. The process of researching and analyzing these materials is also detailed.

The article presents an analysis of the research on engraving techniques used at Piedra Museo archaeological locality in Santa Cruz, Argentina. Particular focus is given to the petroglyphs, which provide valuable archaeological information on the characteristics of ancient hunter-gatherer societies.