The little known Omereque style of central Bolivia is quite
distinct from other local styles in being highly polychromatic
and in using anthropomorphic and zoomorphic motifs instead of
geometric designs. Its uniqueness has generated discussion as to
the origin of the style: It has been linked to the Nasca style of
Peru as well as the Tiwanaku style of Bolivia. A definition of
the Omereque style, discussion of the theories of its origin, the
way in which it was impacted by outside influences and its
implication as an example for style theory will be presented.
Paper presented as part of General Session on South American
Complex Societies