PIGMENTS AND PAINTS IN ANTOFAGASTA DE LA SIERRA. COMPOSITIONAL ANALYSIS OF MINERALS AND CERAMIC SURFACES (PROVINCE OF CATAMARCA, ARGENTINA)

Abstract

The results of compositional studies of paints and slips applied on archaeological ceramics of different styles recovered at Punta de la Peña, Peñas Coloradas and Paicuqui, archaeological sites of Antofagasta de la Sierra microrregion (Catamarca Province, Argentina), are presented and discussed. The variability of minerals used in local, as well as, in foreign pieces is evaluated. Furthermore, pigment deposits of diverse colors and also evidences of pigment processing were found. These materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction and Raman microspectroscopy and their possible application in the fabrication of the studied ceramics is discussed. This information may contribute to the knowledge of the local pottery production, circulation ways and use, and of the elaboration techniques developed in this region during the chronological range ca. 1000-1500 AD. Also, may serve as the start of an empirical reference database of raw materials sources, which are scarcely registered in Argentine Northwest.