Abstract

SPROVIERI, Marina. Variability of spindle whorls from la Paya and other sites from the Calchaquí Valley (Salta), and their interregional similarities. Comechingonia [online]. 2014, vol.18, n.1, pp.117-137. ISSN 1851-0027.

Among the main evidence of textile activity in the past, in particular of the spinning process, are the spindle whorls. In this case, we tackle the study of a sample of spindle whorls from the Central Calchaquí Valley from a morphologic and decorative analysis, which lead to the recognition of 17 types, and from the consideration of the raw materials used, contexts and chronology. Moreover, a comparison between these types and objects from other regions allowed the identification of similarities, with different levels of correspondence, with spindle whorls from Quebrada del Toro, Lerma Valley, puna of Jujuy, Santiago del Estero and the settlement of Potrero Chaquiago, mainly. Considering these different results, the presence of types typical of the Calchaquí Valley is suggested, as well as the existence of other types indicative of processes of interregional circulation during late times.

Keywords : Spindle whorl; Late regional types; Interregional circulation; Central Calchaquí Valley.