Technological Change: Ceramic Mortuary Technology in the Valley of Atemajac From the Late Formative to the Classic Periods

Abstract

AbstractThis study investigates prehistoric West Mexican mortuary activities as technological systems. Specifically, the production, distribution, and use of mortuary ceramics are considered within a social context. Technological changes occurring between the Late Formative and Classic periods (200b.c.–a.d. 700) at the site of Tabachines are compared to changes occurring at the center of the Teuchitlan tradition, 50 km away. At Tabachines, all aspects of the technology point to profound social change: tomb construction, treatment of the dead and offerings, and the approach to the production and use of mortuary ceramics. These changes are considered within a regional scope.