Ceramics and Society among the Classic Maya Cities of the Western Petén

This symposium focuses on the ceramic traditions of the Classic Maya cities of the Western Petén. These cities, virtually unknown a decade ago, possess a common, interconnected history. The sites between Central Lakes region and the Mexican frontier, dwelt in apparent harmony, lacking the militarism of other regions of the Classic Maya world and sharing many artistic and epigraphic traditions. Most apparent is that they shared many aspects of their disparate ceramic traditions, suggesting a significant level of interaction and exchange. Gift exchange, commerce, and artisan interaction developed throughout the Classic period, creating a shared ceramic tradition. This symposium focuses on these traditions, their differences and their similarities, and the physical vessels themselves that moved through this region. The evidence suggests a unique set of social and political relations between the Maya peoples of the region, one geared for mutual cooperation, rather than the military competition of the Maya world around them. This session will discuss the ceramic record and the social and political implications of this evidence for the cities of El Perú-Waka’, La Corona, Motul de San José, La Florida-Namaan, La Joyanca, and other centers inside and outside this region.