A Tecnomorphological Approach to Vasitos Chatos from Doncellas (Northern Puna, Argentina) through Archaeometric Techniques

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an archaeometric analysis of the vasitos chatos («short cups») from Doncellas (Argentine Northern Puna). On the one hand radiographic technique was used in order to identify the internal structure not visible in normal conditions –orientation, size, quantity and distribution of the particles and empty– and on the other hand a series of thin sections were performed for petrographic determination of the containers. Effective use of these techniques is discussed here in terms of the different choices of potters at the time of shaping these objects, such as the use of molds, coiling or plaques. As knowledge of technological processes in themselves, and not merely their material effects, is what allows us to discuss social aspects of the past, the paper raises a number of hypotheses beyond the exclusive analysis of material objects.