Obsidian Processing and Distribution in Classic Period Lower Cotaxtla Basin, Veracruz, México

Summary

During the Classic period (1st mill. CE), South Central Veracruz was a mosaic of microstates in which obsidian was scarce but available to everyone. Semi-intensive systematic survey in 400 km2 of the lower Cotaxtla basin showed occasional concentrations that led to propose two alternatives: state-controlled workshops obtaining and redistributing artifacts to resident population, or independent workshops servicing clients across borders, implying the existence of a market-based economy.

Chaîne opératoire analysis shows that, while obsidian sources (Zaragoza-Oyameles for prismatic blades and Pico de Orizaba for percussion flakes), core types and knapping techniques are identical across the survey region, there is a high incidence and a wide variety of knapping errors. The evidence reflects a well established procurement system coupled to a low degree of specialization, which opens the possibility of a third alternative: state procurement of raw material (acquired using surplus of commercial staple like cotton, cacao, or rubber), with limited individual household access and production of artifacts.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 83rd Annual Meeting, Washington, DC (2018)

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Spatial Coverage

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 20697