Work

Large Obsidian Bifaces from a Middle Horizon Ritual Offering in the South-Central Coast of Peru: Provenance and Technology

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This report presents the provenance and technological analysis of two large obsidian bifaces recovered from a Middle Horizon (ca. AD 600–1000) ritual abandonment context at the coastal site of Cerro de Oro in the Cañete Valley, Peru. Portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) analysis identifies Quispisisa as the obsidian source, thereby documenting its circulation beyond highland Wari contexts. Technological analysis indicates contrasting trajectories: one biface shows no evidence of use, whereas the other exhibits macro use wear consistent with woodworking. Its location in a residential complex suggests community participation in the acquisition and ritual re-signification of prestigious nonlocal materials.

Source: Latin American Antiquity

DOI: 10.1017/laq.2026.10184

Authors: Francesca Fernandini, Antonio Pérez-Balarezo, Jalh Dulanto, Alexandra Oshiro

Institution: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

Language: English

Topic: Cultural Heritage Materials Analysis

Subfield: Archeology

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,550

Funder: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú