Estudio tecnológico de 13 collares etnográficos patagónicos

Abstract

Ethnographic accounts often describe the long shell bead necklaces worn by Patagonian canoe indians. Numerous exemplars of these artefacts are curated in museums around the world. Whilst the decorative function of these necklaces is generally taken for granted, little is known about the ways in which they were manufactured. In order to expand our knowledge of these techniques, twelve necklaces from the Salesian Museum in Punta Arenas and a further necklace from the Regional Museum of Magallanes were studied focusing on the manufacturing techniques employed and the ways in which they were used. The beads evidence a careful selection of shells, their modification according to a particular aesthetic, and recurrently employed drilling techniques. Also recorded are the types of fibres used for cordage and related twinning techniques. We also observe occasional painting/colouring of some of them. The study demonstrates outstanding technical complexity coupled with careful craftsmanship in the production of these ornaments, offering new insights to understand the technical systems of indigens.