Aims and objectives
The archive of the archaeologist Arthur Posnansky consists of around 1,500 documents, including photographic negatives, manuscripts, books, and engravings, generated between 1898 and 1930 during his research in the Andean region of Bolivia.
This collection is a unique and invaluable resource, essential for the archaeological study of Tiwanaku. It constitutes the first scientific and detailed photographic record of the ruins of this ancient civilisation. Posnansky was a key figure in the intellectual circles of Latin America during the first half of the 20th century. He was a member and president of several Bolivian organisations and institutions, including the historic Geographical Society of Bolivia, as well as director of the National Museum and the Criminology Institute, and founder of the Archaeological Society in 1930. His work marked a paradigm shift in the way the history and culture of Bolivia, especially in the city of La Paz, were understood. His influence endures to this day, and his archive is essential for understanding both the archaeological history of Tiwanaku and the impact of his work on intellectual and scientific thought in the region.
Immediate actions are needed to inventory and classify the collection by medium (paper, glass, metal) to prevent further loss. Proper archival storage, including acid-free enclosures and targeted reinforcement for fragile items, is essential. Digitisation is a priority to preserve the collection’s content, ensure its accessibility for future research, and safeguard its cultural and historical value against complete deterioration.
