Vessels consumption in a late public context of Pucara de Volcan (Tumbaya, Jujuy, Argentina)

Abstract

In this paper potteries excavated in Structure R5 from Pucara de Volcán site are analyzed and hypotheses about their differential consumption in this local Inca context in Quebrada de Humahahuaca are stated. Pucara de Volcán is an approximately 7 hectares conglomerate settlement. The occupation of the site was most important during the Regional Developments (Late Intermediate) and Inca Periods. Structure R5, situated within the western zone of the settlement, is closely associated to Structure R2, the midden Tum1B2 and to a plaza-artificial mound cemetery complex. The three pottery contexts studied point to a supra-domestic consumption: Structure R5 as a place of food preparation to be consumed in public events, Tum 1B2 as a discard area mainly for service vessels and Structure R2 as a probable big vessels store.