Regional Studies and Ceramic Production Areas: An Example from La Mixtequilla, Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

AbstractAbstractFew regional projects in Mesoamerican archaeology have detected ceramic production areas. One project in La Mixtequilla, south-central Veracruz, likewise has provided little direct evidence (eg., overfired wasters) of specialized ceramic production. In this study, some of the reasons for the paucity of wasters are investigated through refiring experiments. Quantitative survey data are shown to help detect possible Postclassic specialized comal (tortilla griddle) production areas, while the results of more intensive investigations can provide insights into the characteristics of such loci. The results are employed to evaluate the degree of specialization of production areas, their relationship with sociopolitical processes (eg., influences from central Mexican polities), and the implications for interpreting Postclassic La Mixtequilla.