Affiliation:
1. Mercyhurst Archaeological Institute, Mercyhurst College
Abstract
Although the ceramic repertoire of the Mimbres has been extensively studied, illustrated, and published for over a century, Mimbreño perishables technology is poorly known. Detailed analysis of the small but highly informative plant-fiber artifact assemblage from NAN Ranch, New Mexico, permits the first characterization of Mimbres perishables production and use while affording the opportunity to establish the general outlines and salient events of the evolution of Mogollon perishables production. This developmental sequence is rooted in a local Archaic base of venerable antiquity but is strongly influenced by the introduction of “new” techniques and forms from northern Mexico at a time coextensive with the spread of agriculture into this portion of the greater American Southwest.