From mineral to structure and vice versa: New methodological and experimental observations on the pebble phenomenon from the tropical regions of South America

Pérez-Balarezo A.; Paulo de Melo Ramos M.; Viana S.A.; Garcia A.M.; Silva E.; Boëda É. · Anthropologie (France) (2023) · DOI: 10.1016/j.anthro.2023.103171

Resumen

In the field of archaeology, the pebble — a raw mineral material — is frequently subject to biased interpretations that obstruct its objective comprehension. Countering stereotypes that equate the pebble with primitiveness, this article seeks to reevaluate its technical utility. We delineate three primary methods of pebble exploitation: (1) unaltered use, wherein its mass serves functions such as a percussor or projectile, via a process of complete Affordance; (2) complete transformation into a distinct tool through the processes of Shaping or Flaking; and (3) its conceptualization as an assemblage composed of multiple sub-units, which through the interplay of Shaping, Flaking, and Affordance, constitute a matrix. This latter approach necessitates the acknowledgement that certain sections of the pebble are intentionally selected and conserved for prospective technical functions. Building on this classification, we scrutinize a range of archaeological and experimental instances from tropical regions where the pebble holds a pivotal role in toolkits. Through a techno-functional examination, we underscore the complexity of the pebble as a technical entity, thus revealing the distinctiveness of numerous cultures throughout history. This study suggests an alternative to the dominant interpretation focused on the peri-Mediterranean region, instead casting the pebble as a unique, diverse, universal, and timeless phenomenon.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos