A bioarchaeological analysis of burials from Kuelap; an exploration of patterns in morphology and lifestyle

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of skeletal indicators of physical morphology reconstructed from burials recovered from Kuelap to test proposed models of the nature of the Chachapoya people whose characteristics have been mythologized from secondary historical documents based on Inka perceptions. Broadly defined as strong and fierce, but also fair and beautiful, this research explores Inka concepts of the physical distinctiveness of the Chachapoya people. Using skeletal data gathered from a large sample of over 600 burials from Kuelap, we examine estimations of stature, limb proportions, indicators of robusticity, body mass estimates, cranial modification, and traumatic injuries to reconstruct aspects of the physicality of the Chachapoya men and women. Comparisons can be made to the limited published literature to consider if the Chachapoya were distinct from other pre-Columbian populations either on the coast or in highland areas. While this is the first approximation of a morphometric profile of this Andean region, the Chachapoya’s reputation is not overwhelmingly supported by a physical distinctiveness, although there are some specific features that distinguish them from other groups. The biocultural identities of past populations can be tested using various indicators to consider the influence of bio-geographical and cultural factors.