Ceramic production and exchange in the Chavín heartland: an archaeometric study from Canchas Uckro (1100 − 800 BCE), Ancash, Peru

Abstract Canchas Uckro is one of several settlements surrounding the ceremonial and urban center of Chavín de Huántar (c. 1100 − 400 BCE). In this paper, we explore the relationship between these two sites through an archaeometric study of pottery production at Canchas Uckro (c. 1100 − 800 BCE). Specifically, we combine thin-section petrography and portable X-ray fluorescence to characterize technological style based on a sample of 56 sherds. Our analyses identified 12 distinct petro-groups, with most of the pottery (85% of the assemblage) reflecting two local technological styles. A small percentage of ceramic fine wares representing both geochemical and technological outliers (2–4%) point to probable interregional exchange, while a larger group of undecorated ceramics (~ 10%) suggests more frequent intraregional interactions. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that Canchas Uckro’s ceramic production was independent of Chavín de Huántar, with its inhabitants participating in distinct social and economic networks.