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FAMSI © 2007: Anthony A. Vega |
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Early and Middle Formative: San Lorenzo, Veracruz, México
Figurine Analysis The floodplain excavations yielded various body parts (e.g., heads, arms and legs) of figurines. Unfortunately, no complete figurines were recovered from the test units. Nonetheless, the body parts still possess useful information about the complete figurine from which it belongs. The condition of the figurine fragments varied from good to poor. The various fragments were thus divided into body parts; head, torso, legs, feet, arms, and hands. These body parts were examined for anatomical and non-anatomical traits. For example, anatomical traits for figurine heads include head shape, eyes, ears, noses, and mouths; whereas, non-anatomical traits of figurines include ornamentation (e.g., bracelets, necklaces, ear spools, and pendants), headdresses, and garments. Each individual trait or element thus has its own characteristics. Body position (e.g., seated, prone, standing, kneeling, and legs crossed) was noted. I also noted surface treatment (e.g., burnishing, slip, paint, and color) and temper characteristics (e.g., particle size and color). These categories and subcategories are a representation of traits and do not include the entire list. The list of categories can grow depending on the traits present on each individual figurine fragment. I measured body parts and broken areas (e.g., arm and leg sockets) with the intention to distinguish legs from arms. Differences in body part lengths and diameters (e.g., arms and legs) as well as other traits (e.g., body position) may represent a specific style. In addition, I drew all four profiles of each figurine fragment. This helps identify the characteristics of the object. Thus, drawing the artifact is an important component of my analysis (Figure 2, Figure 3, Figure 4, Figure 5, Figure 6). The figurine analysis is not complete.
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