Caral dig unearths 3,000-year-old clay figures
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Archaeologists in Caral, Peru, discovered clay figures dating from 3000 to 1800 BC during ongoing research at the site.
Marco Antonio Machacuay Romero, subdirector of Research and Conservation at the Caral Archaeological Zone, believes the figures, depicting a male and female pair, may reflect the cosmology and understanding of existence held by the ancient Caral civilization. The figurines were found near the main residential area of the Sacred City of Caral and offer insight into the people’s perspective on nature.
The figures show distinct male and female characteristics, one with features resembling a loincloth, the other with conical breasts. Initially, figurines from this period were detailed representations of daily life, including people, animals, and plants, but were uncolored. After 1800 BC, color began to appear on the figurines and wall decorations at Caral, as well as at the Vichama and Peñico archaeological sites, also linked to the civilization.
Due to their age and fragile condition, the recently discovered figures were briefly displayed at the Ministry of Culture. Later figurines show differences in status, with one male figure displaying signs of visual impairment and simple clothing, which researchers interpret as a patron-servant relationship. The 32nd anniversary of the start of investigations at Caral will be celebrated with the Caral Raymi festival on October 23 and 24, including a ceremony honoring Pachamama, the earth mother, and cultural performances.
