Peruvian polygonal masonry: how, who, when and what for – Ростислав Владимирович Лапшин

The monograph covers the problem of reproduction of the most complicated for implementation type of a polygonal masonry existing in Peru using simplest means. This masonry type consists of large stone blocks weighing from several hundred kilograms to several tons fitted without a gap between complicated curved surfaces over a large area. The proposed methods are based on the use of a reduced clay model, 3D-pantograph, topography translator and replicas. The Fortress Sacsayhuaman has been identified as a survived to our time example of early star fortresses. The polygonal structures in Peru, the polygonal Face Towers and polygonal bas-reliefs in Cambodia, the symmetrical and geometrically similar statues of pharaohs in Egypt are based on the alike construction technologies, working methods, tools and contrivances. All these monuments were created by people belonging to the same European guild of architects, sculptors, builders and could not have appeared earlier than the 17th century.