Maya Pottery Production at Nakum, Guatemala, during the Protoclassic Period (100/50 BC – AD 300/350)

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Abstract

This study investigates the Protoclassic ceramic production at Nakum, Guatemala, using it as a proxy to explore the nature of the transition from the Preclassic to Classic period (100/50 BC – AD 300/350) in Central Maya lowlands. Petrographic analysis reveals that household specialisation existed in the local production of slipped serving and utilitarian wares at Nakum. The recovery of locally made polychrome vessels further indicates that Nakum might have participated in a new network of cultural interactions and trade, enabling the community to sustain stable growth at a time when many major Preclassic sites declined.

Publication Date
2021-03-11
Online Publication Date
Acceptance Date
2021-02-14
Keywords
Original Article, Original Articles, Ceramic analysis, petrography, craft organisation, Guatemala, Maya archaeology, Protoclassic period
Journal Title
Archaeometry
Journal ISSN
0003-813X
1475-4754
Volume Title
63
Publisher
Sponsorship
H2020 Marie Skłodowska‐Curie Actions (750904)
National Science Centre (NCN) (UMO‐2014/14/E/HS3/00534)