Description
Book SynopsisThis volume has two main objectives: establishing a chronology of the Middle Balsas and detailing the region’s pottery production methods. The author posits that pottery intended for different functions was often deliberately made and/or decorated in ways that were chosen to make the vessels more appropriate for their intended functions. More specifically, this study determines whether any of the pottery production patterns identified in the region are linked to specific constraints imposed by the materials during the process of pottery manufacture. For example, it examines whether variables such as vessel shape and wall thickness correlate with the clay types and processing techniques determined during thin section analysis of the ancient sherds. Additionally, certain production behaviours are identified that are characteristic of the entire region and that can be used as markers of local tradition.
Table of ContentsChapter 1: Introduction: Problem Statement, Theoretical Underpinnings, and the Ecology of the Middle Balsas Region ;
Chapter 2: Previous Work and Contemporary Archaeological Projects in and Surrounding the Middle Balsas Region ;
Chapter 3: Methods ;
Chapter 4: Field Results from the Sites of La Quesería, Itzímbaro, and Mexiquito ;
Chapter 5: Results from Laboratory Analyses and Replication Studies ;
Chapter 6: Patterns in Middle Balsas Pottery Production and their Interpretation ;
Chapter 7: Conclusions ;
Bibliography ;
Appendix 1: Registry of Bags from La Quesería, Itzímbaro, and Mexiquito ;
Appendix 2: Ceramic Analysis ;
Appendix 3: Diameter and Thickness Measurements ;
Appendix 4: Obsidian Analysis ;
Appendix 5: Figurine Analysis ;
Appendix 6: Raw Point Count Data ;
Appendix 7: Strength Test Data
