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Research Year:  2003
Culture:  Tarascan
Chronology:  Late Post Classic
Location:  Michoacán, México
Site:  Itziparátzico

Table of Contents

Abstract
Introduction
Project Background and Goals
Fieldwork
Surface Survey
Excavations
Laboratory Analysis
Comments
Acknowledgements
List of Figures
Sources Cited

Abstract

Mesoamerican copper metallurgy emerged in West México sometime between A.D. 600-800. Over a period of approximately 900 years, a wide variety of artifacts, typically decorations and other valuable non-utilitarian goods were produced. By 1450 A.D., the Tarascan kingdom in the state of Michoacán had become the most important center of Prehispanic metalworking. Metallurgy played a significant role in the structure of political and economic power in the Tarascan Empire. Metal adornments used as an insignia of social status and public ritual became even more associated with political power. While metal was used for an array of goods, virtually nothing is known about the manufacture and the organization of production of this craft. This report summarizes the results of the FAMSI-funded Proyecto Santa Clara 2004, which involved surface survey and excavations at the archaeological site of Itziparátzico, near the modern Tarascan community of Santa Clara del Cobre, where potential copper production areas were located and concentrations of manufacturing slag were recorded.

Submitted 10/15/2004 by:
Blanca E. Maldonado
Doctoral Candidate
Department of Anthropology
Pennsylvania State University
bem171@psu.edu

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