Styles and Identities in the Central Andes: The Early Intermediate Period and Middle Horizon

Abstract

When archaeologists discuss the world’s archaic civilisations, the central Andes stand out for isolation and cultural distinctiveness. No other culture area achieved such complexity without a writing system or produced such surprising variations in cultural complexity. The Early Intermediate Period (EIP, cal 120 bce to 620 ce ) witnessed evolutionary innovations – state government and the first cities, although the Andean solutions do not correspond well with ideal stages or types popular among cultural evolutionists. The EIP also inscribed unique character and strong variation into Andean cultures and ethnicities. For the first time identity and difference were self-consciously asserted in creative styles and distinctive mortuary practices. Multiethnic communities are indicated if style and identity correlate as much as archaeologists believe. As the EIP progressed, stylistic variability refocused into prominent regional expressions more expressive of inequality and status. With the onset of the Middle Horizon (MH, cal 620–1000 ce ) a new unifying imagery crystallised in two great cities, Huari and Tiahuanaco. Representing a new religion whose pantheon was adopted more or less simultaneously by both centres, the cities and their expansionistic polities were nonetheless materially distinct and politically independent of one another. Each promoted distinctive material culture, mortuary preferences and political organisation. Yet they managed to act in concert to formalise and represent the new religious doctrine, and even to coordinate a geopolitical adventure into Peru’s far south coast. These are issues examined here, although limitations of space allow only a selection of Andean cultures. I have opted to highlight exciting new research findings, discussing Paracas/Nasca, Moche and Pucara of the EIP, Tiwanaku of the EIP and MH and Wari of the MH (Figure 2.25.1).