Distribution and procurement strategies of black obsidian in central-western Santa Cruz province (Patagonia, Argentina)

Abstract

In southern Patagonia, research proposals regarding the procurement strategies of black obsidian are still open. In broad spatial and temporal terms, Pampa del Asador has been proposed as the main source of this lithic resource. On a macro-regional scale, direct and indirect mechanisms of obsidian procurement from Pampa del Asador source were suggested. At the same time, variability in transport and exploitation strategies was recorded through the regional study of obsidian cores. Such variability indicates that the distance to the source does not unequivocally explain all the observed patterns.

In this opportunity, we seek to deepen this proposal to discuss the different factors involved in the mechanisms for obtaining this lithic resource by hunter-gatherer societies that inhabited the region after 2000 years B.P. We work on a broad regional scale, relevant to discuss aspects of mobility and social interaction. Thus, the sample includes 147 archaeological sites located in different environmental sectors: basaltic plateaus (Cerro Pampa, Guitarra and Strobel plateaus) and lake basins (Cardiel and Salitroso). A macroscopic analysis was carried out to integrate the information of cores with that of tools and debitage.

Results highlight the variability of strategies initially suggested. It is emphasized that the particularities of land use and availability of other lithic resources are relevant for understanding the patterns observed in the archaeological record.