From margins to mainstream: understanding the Amazonian Polychrome Tradition Expansion through spatial and chronological modelling

Authors: Lopes, R.D.A., Riris, P., Silva, F.P., Tamanaha, E.K., Almeida, F.O.D., Belletti, J.D.S., Oliveira, E., Lombardo, U., Junqueira, A.B., Trindade, T.B., Moraes, C.D.P., Neves, E.G.

Journal: Antiquity

Publication Date: 01/01/2026

eISSN: 1745-1744

ISSN: 0003-598X

DOI: 10.15184/aqy.2026.10286

Abstract:

The Polychrome Expansion marks the widespread dispersal of an emblematic ceramic style across much of Amazonia during a period of broad social transformation. Yet the timing and constituent routes for this dispersal are poorly understood, in part due to a lack of dating at many sites. Here, the authors apply computational methods to model the expansion via existing radiocarbon dates, critically examining issues of timing, travel and trade/conflict. The results, they argue, call for a reinterpretation of the Polychrome Expansion as a long-lasting and gradual process that advanced from secondary rivers and spread along main channels, eventually impacting colonial history.

https://eprints.bournemouth.ac.uk/41847/

Source: Scopus