Report of the 1998 and 1999 Investigations on the Archaeology and Iconography of the Polychrome Stucco Façade of Structure N10-28, Lamanai, Belize

Abstract

This research project centers on a collection of ca. 2000 polychrome fragments of modeled stucco that was once upper zone decoration of Structure N10-28 at Lamanai, Belize. This collection consists of a variety of motifs and decorative elements, including a central figure (an ahau), subsidiary elites, and supernatural figures associated with royal power. Small-scale excavations were undertaken along the western and southwestern faces of the structure to recover more stucco fragments and to clarify some architectural data. During this field season, it was planned to fully analyze the complete collection. However, a variety of factors, namely expansion of excavations, did not allow me to complete this objective. Therefore, the discussion in this report should be considered preliminary, pending completion in an estimated two more full field seasons. Concomitant to this project was the need to safely store and conserve the collection in a secure environment, which has now been largely addressed. This report presents the findings of the 1999 archaeological excavations on Structure N10-28, and presents a summary discussion of iconographical elements found in the collection. This is one of the few collections of Terminal Classic Mayan sculpture, presenting a unique opportunity to study Maya iconography at a time of stability for Lamanai, while the rest of the Lowlands was in a period of decline.

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