Abstract

Archaeological contexts constitute an unparalleled source of information on skeletal disarticulation patterns and taphonomical events. Cultural as well as personal preferences dictate how, when and where the remains of the deceased will be laid to rest, all of which are factors that affect decomposition and, consequently, skeletal disarticulation. Understanding the latter helps reconstruct the original layout of the remains as well as identify any post-depositional events that may have altered the original context. This study looks at a set of pre-Columbian collective burials from Tablada de Lurín (Lurín Valley, Peru; A.D. 1-200). Through careful excavation and in situ anatomical and taphonomical observations recommended by the French school of Archéothanatologie, the author aimed to study the disarticulation pattern of individuals in a sitting/squatting position within a funerary bundle. It was possible to identify the disarticulation pattern as well as reconstruct the original burial position and the preparation of the bundles, which included placing the individuals upon a basket and wrapping them in at least one shroud. Moreover, the study also provided information on the order of dislocation of certain joints during decomposition, within the context of a funerary bundle. It appears that in such contexts the ankle and hip joints decompose more rapidly than the knee joint. Also, the shoulder joint is more persistent than the claviculo-sternal one and the anatomical connection between the scapula and the posterior ribcage.

Available Versions of this Item

• Archaeological insights into the disarticulation pattern of a human body in a sitting/squatting position. (deposited 21 Jul 2011 17:35)
  • Archaeological insights into the disarticulation pattern of a human body in a sitting/squatting position. (deposited 21 Jul 2011 17:34) [Currently Displayed]
    • Archaeological insights into the disarticulation pattern of a human body in a sitting/squatting position. (deposited 14 Mar 2012 13:48)