Early central andean metalworking from mina perdida, peru
1R. L. Burger, Peabody Museum of Natural History and Department of Anthropology, Yale University, Post Office Box 208277, New Haven, CT 06520-8277, USA. E-mail: richard.burger@yale.edu. R. B. Gordon, Department of Geology and Geophysics, Yale Uni.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|November 6, 1998
Summary
Early Andean artisans in Peru mastered metalworking, creating gold and copper artifacts by hammering native metals into foils and gilding copper. This predates the Chavin horizon, showing advanced metallurgy early on.
Area of Science:
- Archaeometallurgy
- Andean Prehistory
Background:
- The development of early metallurgy in the Andes is crucial for understanding cultural and technological advancements.
- Previous research has focused on later periods, leaving gaps in the understanding of early metalworking techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the earliest stages of copper and gold working in the Lurin Valley, Peru.
- To determine the chronological relationship between native copper working, smelted copper production, and gold application techniques.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of copper and gold artifacts from Mina Perdida, dated to 3120-3020 BP (1410-1090 BC).
- Examination of artifact manufacturing techniques, including hammering, annealing, and foil application for gilding.
Main Results:
- Artifacts demonstrate hammering of native metals into thin foils, with evidence of annealing.
- Copper artifacts were gilded using gold foil, indicating sophisticated application techniques.
- The findings place key elements of Andean metallurgical tradition before the Chavin horizon.
Conclusions:
- The working of native copper on the Peruvian coast predates the production of smelted copper objects.
- Fundamental techniques of Andean metallurgy were established significantly earlier than previously assumed.
- This study provides critical insights into the origins of complex metalworking in South America.
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