Radiography at Copán

Concluding Statement

In the course of the Copán Radiography Project, we have created an x-ray archive for three sets of human remains. Included are those from the Hunal, the Margarita, and the Motmot tombs. These will be useful for further specialized studies, including bone function and biomechanics.

Our results also indicate that although the remains attributed to Yax K’uk Mo’ present clear evidence of severe, survived blunt force trauma, there is little evidence of diminished activity levels. The single clearly defined evidence of disuse atrophy occurs in the distal right ulna of the forearm. Two examples of developmental anomalies within the upper limbs have been identified and will be subject of further study. In addition, x-rays of the dentition, specifically the inlaid teeth, will provide further details concerning the methods used and the pathological sequelae of dental modification.

Remains from the Margarita tomb are limited due to the impact of extensive post-depositional treatment with cinnabar. Interestingly, the x-rays reveal the extent to which the pigment penetrated the skull after the flesh was no longer present.

The Motmot remains appear free of generalized osteopenia, despite their gracile nature. The right ulna presents clear evidence of a complete midshaft fracture, with an absence of deformity. This circumstance may suggest that the bone was set, following the traumatic episode.

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