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

Iconographic Summary

The narrative program of the stucco façade of Structure N10-28 represents a ruler (an ahau) surrounded by subsidiary figures, representing lesser elites of Lamanai society, as well as captives. The main figure is a male, and is represented by a profile head, upper arm, a lower leg, and a jadeite bead pectoral. Due to the size and rich adornment of this figure, he may have been the ahau of Lamanai, and in all likelihood was located over the central doorway.

Other iconographic elements of sacred royal power are represented by a large head of Kinich Ahau, the sun god, and an image of God K.  The identity of other supernatural heads have not yet been determined. In sum, the façade seems to convey a program on the charter of power and Maya kingship.

The pictorial groupings include a wide range of motifs and forms. Many of these are decorative, such as adornos, beads, buttons, and other forms that have not yet been classified. A number of anthropomorphic forms have been identified, including arms, feet, legs, as well as elements of elaborate elite costume. At least five lesser figures of the royal court have been identified, as well as two captive figures. A number of pieces, when grouped, depict a seated male figure set against a green background decorated with grooved curvilinear patterns.

A large number of enframing elements exist in the collection, with a range of color, sizes, and shapes. These pieces are thought to have framed individual images as well as delineating the entire façade. Feathers from headdresses and costume have also been noted, as well as two glyphic forms. Five knots have been identified, the best preserved being a bright blue. Two examples of a trefoil motif in the collection represent a non-anthropomorphic version of the Jester God. Four fragments of a witz monster were noted, which identify a structure as a sacred mountain and the entrance to the Underworld.

A large number of perforated discs were identified in the collection, representing earflares. One of these belonged to the figure of K’inich Ahau. The nature of the breakage indicate that this figure was once located on the corner of the façade. Images of saurians were noted in the collection, with much of these pieces being recovered in the 1999 field season. Some of the fragments may include a supra-orbital plate and a limb. Other pieces may represent an eye and a tail.

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