Click on image to enlarge.

Research Year:  2003
Culture:  Mixtec
Chronology:  Pre-Classic
Location:  Nochixtlán Valley, Oaxaca, México
Site:  Etlatongo

Table of Contents

Abstract
Introduction
Background: The Mixteca Alta and Etlatongo
Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis of Obsidian
Intra- and Interregional Interaction: Diachronic and Synchronic Data
Conclusion
Acknowledgements
List of Figures and Tables
Sources Cited
Appendix 1. Element Concentrations, Site Names and Source Names for Obsidian Artifacts from Oaxaca

Abstract

In order to determine the nature and extent of interregional interaction during the Early Formative period at Etlatongo, in the Nochixtlán Valley of Oaxaca, México, 207 obsidian samples have been sourced to determine the origin of each fragment. The results document that the ancient villagers utilized obsidian from nine sources, with the majority (65%) coming from the Parédon source, in Puebla. Differences in types of obsidian and frequencies between different contexts at Etlatongo show selective participation in various networks by the Early Formative villagers. These data contrast with those from Early Formative sites in the Nochixtlán Valley and the Cuicatlán Cañada, where the majority of obsidian comes from Guadalupe Victoria, Puebla. In order to understand changes through time, 106 Late Formative obsidian fragments from Etlatongo were sourced. Seven sources were utilized. While the Paredón source still maintained great importance, other sources comprised a larger portion of the sample than earlier, while several new sources were exploited. Samples from the Valley of Oaxaca and the Isthmus of Tehuantepec provide comparative data on Late Formative obsidian utilization. These data are crucial for understanding interaction and social complexity in the Mixteca Alta and beyond.

Submitted 06/24/2004 by:
Dr. Jeffrey P. Blomster
George Washington University
stjeffpb@juno.com

Next Page

Return to top of page