LA CERÁMICA DE LA PEÑA DEL MEDIO, PAICUQUI: VARIABILIDAD EN UN PAISAJE DE ENCUENTRO (ANTOFAGASTA DE LA SIERRA, ARGENTINA).

During the prehispanic late occupations (ca. 1000-1500 AD), the Peña del Medio (Paicuqui, microregion of Antofagasta de la Sierra, Province of Catamarca), had a strong ritual connotation linked to astronomical observations and cult of the ancestors and, related to micro and macrorregional interaction practices. This paper presents the results obtained from stylistic and petrographic studies of the ceramics recovered on the place. An important stylistic variability in the vessels, their elaboration with allochthonous raw materials and the predominance of suitable forms for food consumption is detected. Ceramic similarities of the Antofalla region and of different sectors of the Calchaquíes valleys are recognized. It is concluded that the ceramic set is consistent with the interpretation of Paicuqui as a meeting place and interaction mediated by ritual practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]