An archaeology of Ancash : stones, ruins and communities in ancient Peru /

The author has dedicated the last two decades to cultural and historical research in Ancash Department, Peru, primarily on the highland Recuay culture. The specific area is well known for its variety of prehistoric stone monoliths, plaques, and portable stone objects. Lau (archaeology, Univ. of East Anglia, UK) wants to examine why people carve and venerate stone by focusing on its evolving materiality and the relationship of the agentive and imagistic capacities as exhibited chronologically in the pilgrimage centers of Cerro Sechín, Chavin de Huántar, Pashash, Wilkawain, and Huánuco Pampa. Thus, much of book examines the "object agency" of portal stone objects, looking at both their aniconic/symbolic and mimetic/imitative properties. In addition, the book includes a chapter on stone gaming boards/tableros in the Andes, and also looks at how the prehistoric patrimony is integrated into modern regional commodifying of the past. The volume will be of interest to Peruvianist social scientists and researchers focused on interpreting prehistoric religious iconography. The arguments are supported by chapter endnotes, glossary, and 116 figures and plates. Summing Up: Recommended. All levels/libraries. --David L. Browman, Washington University - St. Louis