Analysis of organic residues and siliceous microfossils of the ceramic “spoon” from Cerro Tapera Vazquez archaeological site (Pre-Delta National Park, Argentina)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to establish the function of a ceramic spoon from Cerro Tapera Vázquez archaeological site in the Pre-Delta Parana River (Argentina). For this purpose, the inner surface residues of this artifact were studied by fatty acids, siliceous microfossils and starches analysis. Additionally, morphological attributes as well as size and use-alterations were considered in order to compare with other ceramic spoon proposed collections surveyed in the region.

Based on the obtained information regarding the small open shape of this ceramic container, the thin thickness of its walls, the identified residues, the humidity concentration recorded on the inside of the tube and the signs of thermal alteration in most of the external surface, it is proposed that the spoon was used to heat up and drink liquids made out of vegetables.