Research Year:  2003
Culture:  Maya
Chronology:  Late Classic
Location:  Southern Guatemala
Site:  Cotzumalhuapa

Table of Contents

Abstract
Resumen
Introduction
The Cotzumalhuapa Causeways
Description
Ceramic Analysis
Special Objects
The El Baúl Obsidian Workshop
Summary Description of Excavations
Ceramic Analysis
Special Objects
Obsidian Analysis, by Edgar Carpio Rezzio
Final Comments
Acknowledgements
List of Figures
Sources Cited
Annex I. Preliminary Report on the Artifact Analysis of the Obsidian Workshop at El Baúl

Abstract

Recent research at Cotzumalhuapa focused on the extensive system of causeways and bridges that linked together the settlements and major architectural compounds of the ancient city. Further excavations investigated a large obsidian workshop dump and associated structures, including possible workshop platforms and a probable sweat bath. Analysis of ceramics from these excavations provides a basis to date of the construction and use of the causeways, and the use of the obsidian workshop area. Analysis of obsidian debris recovered from the dump revealed details on the production of both prismatic blades and projectile points from raw materials imported from highland sources. The location of the workshop suggests a degree of centralized control of the industry.

Resumen

Las investigaciones recientes en Cotzumalhuapa se enfocaron en el extenso sistema de calzadas y puentes que integraba los asentamientos y conjuntos arquitectónicos principales de la antigua ciudad. También se excavó un gran basurero de desechos de talla de obsidiana, y algunas estructuras asociadas, que incluyen posibles plataformas del taller y lo que parece ser un baño de vapor. El análisis de la cerámica de estas excavaciones provee una base para fechar la construcción y el uso de las calzadas, y el uso del área del taller. El análisis de los desechos de obsidiana recuperados en el basurero revela detalles de la producción de navajas prismáticas y puntas de proyectil, a partir de materias primas importadas de las fuentes en el altiplano. Lo localización del taller sugiere un grado de control centralizado de la industria.

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Analysis of Archaeological Artifacts from Cotzumalhuapa, Guatemala  (1.18 MB)

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Submitted 06/16/2004 by: