Abstract

VENTURA, Beatriz N. Chipanas and orejones in the Tawantinsuyu eastern frontier. An archaeological and ethnohistorical proposal for the valleys of northern Salta, Argentina. Mem. am. [online]. 2019, vol.27, n.1, pp.11-30.  Epub June 01, 2019. ISSN 1851-3751.

The eastern valleys of northern Salta were part of the eastern border of Tawantinsuyu. In the sector of the Iruya, Nazareno and Bacoya valleys the occupation had economic objectives, comprising an enclave occupied by hierarchical groups. The mineral-metallurgical activities were among the main goals pursued in this eastern sector of the Serranías de Santa Victoria, particularly the production of luxury goods. According to the archaeological record, and taking into consideration the available historic documentation and cartography, we surmise that the metal pieces that characterized the production in these valleys were the chipanas. These bracelets were considered symbols of prestige highly valued within Andean society -especially among the Incas. These pieces of great symbolic value were used as economic exchange goods, as presents for the Inca during festivities, as well as for curacas and orejones. They were also important objects for economic transactions during Inca and early colonial times.

Keywords : prestigious goods; metallurgy; Tawantinsuyu; Salta.

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