A Terminal Classic Period Moldedcarved Ceramic Production Mold from Actun Xtuyul, Pacbitun, Belize

Alternative Title

Mexicon

Publication Date

1-1-2020

Volume Number

42

Issue Number

2

Abstract

Investigations by the Pacbitun Regional Archaeological Project at Actun Xtuyul, a small rockshelter near the pre-Hispanic Maya site of Pacbitun, Belize, have recovered a heavily modified ceramic production mold used to make molded-carved pottery, typical of the Terminal Classic period (AD 800–950). We discuss the archaeological context of the piece, and offer a comprehensive discussion of the modifications, suggesting it had a secondary function as a ritual object. A detailed description of its iconography allow for comparisons with other molded-carved specimens, providing evidence that it was likely used to make Sahcaba Molded-carved type vessels. Lastly, we discuss how the recovery of the piece near Pacbitun reveals a previously unknown portion of Pacbitun’s Terminal Classic period occupational history, especially in light of a weakening institution of kingship and increasing factionalization of secondary elites.

Document Type

Article

Notes

Citation only.

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