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

Field Operation 1

Location: Continuation of the removal of plaza core from the area between Structures N10-15 and N10-28 to the front corners of their respective terraces.

Objectives: There were a number of reasons for excavating in this area. The first was to remove enough plaza core at the top to gain at least a meter of surface of the demolition level that is atop the plaza floor. Within this demolition level it was hoped to recover more stucco fragments, datable ceramics, and obtain stratigraphic information. In many Maya structures, the corners of facades are generally more elaborate and heavier. It is this assumption that further guided reasons for excavations here. Finally, this operation would uncover the terrace corners of these two structures, providing additional architectural data.

Stratigraphy: Two primary levels recognized, Level A represents the core layer that fills the plaza. This level consists primarily of stone with little soil. Depth ranges from three to four meters. Level B corresponds to the demolition level that is atop the plaza floor. This level is characterized by a light yellowish color and the soil is relatively crumbly and sandy. Much of the color and texture is from pulverized building core, stucco, and mortar. Level B is rich in artifacts, primarily stucco and ceramics, and is approximately fifty centimeters thick.

Approximate Dimensions: Approximately 1 by 1.2 meters (at base).

Lot Numbers: 1284, 1285.     Figures: 2:8, 2:9, 2:10, 2:16, 2:19, 2:20, 2:21a, 2:22a

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Click on image to enlarge.

Click on image to enlarge.

Lot Number 1284

Description: Plaza core, corresponds to Level A.

Artifacts:

Thickness of Deposit: Approximately 3 to 4 meters.

Temporal Assignment: end of Terminal Classic, Early Postclassic.

Comments: Few artifacts in this level, most have filtered down through the stones from surface during excavation or natural processes.

Lot Number 1285

Description: Demolition level, corresponds to Level B.

Artifacts:

Thickness of Deposit: Approximately 50 cm.

Temporal Assignment: Terminal Classic

Comments: Two floor levels, one 2 cm higher than the other, were noted. A number of stucco pieces recovered in this level, including two large stone armatures. At least three clusters of ceramics were noted, one of which is a type known as Daylight Orange. Red tinted plaster melt was also noted close to the base of the two terraces, and measured approximately 2 to 4 cm thick.

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