Bow and arrow in the eastern Andes: The case of El Alto-Ancasti mountain range (Catamarca, Argentina) during the 1st millennium CE

Abstract

In this paper, we will present the information obtained from a set of bifacial tanged quartz points found at rock art shelter Oyola 7, located in the El Alto-Ancasti mountain range, Catamarca province, Argentina. These stone tools date back to the 1st millennium of the Common Era. We detail the technological characteristics of this assemblage, primarily manufactured in quartz, and analyze their association with different types of weapons, suggesting their possible use with bows and arrows. Additionally, we will inquire about the significance of this assemblage at this particular archaeological site, as it is almost the only one where we have identified this type of stone tool. Finally, we reflect on the presence of bows and arrows in this region during the historical period studied, while also proposing an alternative perspective based on a locally situated understanding of social processes.