Multidisciplinary Computational Exploration of Hidden Graphic Configurations in the Cave Paintings from El Algodonal (Viza, Peru)

Regalado J.R.M.; Llanos D.M.J.; Becerra A.V.G.; Ubillus J.E.A.; Diaz M.Y.V.; Baique N.A. · Arqueologia Iberoamericana (2025) · DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17550386

Resumen

This study analyzed the rock art at El Algodonal (Viza, Peru) using a multidisciplinary approach that combined direct observation, digital magnification, color contrasts, grayscale, and artificial intelligence algorithms. The objective was to identify hidden configurations and assess the effectiveness of computational approaches in rock art research, recognizing as a limitation the lack of absolute dating of both the site and its regional context. The results show figures of remarkable formal richness: a hybrid humanoid with an elongated head, stylized torso, arms ending in elongated fingers, and a tail; a set of ascending sequences made up of series of dots and arrows associated with anthropomorphic silhouettes with elongated heads. In addition to these visible representations, there are others revealed digitally that include micro-strokes, linear sequences, and patterns. Although detectable through computational analysis, they cannot yet be confirmed as intentional codes due to the absence of a solid chronological framework applied to the rock art record from Viza and the lack of comparable references at other sites in the region. Consequently, the study demonstrates the effectiveness of the computational approach and raises new perspectives for the analysis of rock art, highlighting the potential of artificial intelligence to broaden the under-standing of symbolic expression.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Intercultural de la Amazonia; Universidad Nacional de Jaén