Abstract

MENACHO, Karina A.. Etnoarchaeology and studies of ceramic functionality: the contributions of a study Case. Intersecciones antropol. [online]. 2007, n.8, pp.149-161. ISSN 1850-373X.

This paper's main goal is to contribute to the functional study of ceramic materials from an ethnoarchaeological perspective. A case study is presented which includes the ceramic inventories from domestic shepherds' units in Jujuy's Puna. The data analysis emphasizes the relationship between the criteria used to name the ceramic artifacts and their possible archaeologically identifiable attributes. The types recognized by the users are described on the basis of the morphological and dimensional features of the vessels; the physical properties that determine their function; the activities and the context in which they are used; the changes of associated use; and the relationship with either the loss or the conservation of the original properties of the pieces, as well as the decoration and transformations related to their use. Finally, possible applications and limitations of this kind of information in relation to ceramic materials from archaeological contexts are discussed.

Keywords : Ethnoarchaeology; Ceramic; Function.

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