From Ritual to Refuse: Faunal Exploitation by the Elite of Chinikiha, Chiapas, during the Late Classic Period

The study investigates the faunal exploitation by the Maya elite at Chinikihá,Chiapas,during the Late Classic period (AD 700-850) using zooarchaeological and statistical analyses. It suggests a change in the use of faunal resources from a ritual pattern to a more general refuse deposit,supported by a dietary analysis using δ13C and δ15N stable isotopes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 17 February 2022
Publisher: Archaeopress

From Ritual to Refuse delves into the intriguing faunal exploitation by the Maya elite at the site of Chinikihá, Chiapas, during the late Late Classic period (AD 700-850). By employing zooarchaeological and statistical analyses on a faunal assemblage found in a basurero or midden situated behind a grand palatial structure at the heart of the site, the study sheds light on this period of exploitation. This deposit has been interpreted as the outcome of one or multiple feasting events. The primary objective is to explore temporal shifts in function, particularly during periods of heightened political competitiveness. Furthermore, these analyses indicate a transition in the utilization of faunal resources, moving from a ritualistic pattern to a more generalized refuse deposit. The findings from the zooarchaeological analysis are corroborated by a dietary analysis utilizing δ13C and δ15N stable isotopes conducted on human and faunal samples. The results from the faunal assemblage indicate a consistent supply of animals for ritual and non-ritual purposes, with a majority of these animals sourced from the wild.

From Ritual to Refuse: Unveiling the Faunal Exploitation by the Maya Elite at Chinikihá, Chiapas

In the late Late Classic period (AD 700-850), the Maya elite at the site of Chinikihá, Chiapas, engaged in a profound exploitation of fauna. Through meticulous zooarchaeological and statistical analyses, researchers have shed light on this intriguing phenomenon. By examining a faunal assemblage discovered in a basurero or midden situated behind a grand palatial structure at the heart of the site, scholars have interpreted this deposit as the result of one or various feasting events.

The primary objective of this study is to explore temporal shifts in function, particularly during periods of heightened political competitiveness. The analysis employs zooarchaeological and statistical techniques to examine a diverse range of animal remains, providing valuable insights into the dietary practices and resource utilization of the Maya elite.

One of the key findings is a transition in the use of faunal resources. Initially, the Maya elite relied on a ritualistic pattern to obtain and utilize animals. However, as political competition intensified, there was a shift towards a more generalized refuse deposit. This suggests that the Maya elite began to view animals not only as sacrificial offerings but also as a source of sustenance and waste disposal.

The zooarchaeological analysis reveals that a wide variety of animals were present in the faunal assemblage. These include species such as deer, turkey, agouti, and armadillo, which were likely obtained through hunting and gathering practices. The study also suggests that the Maya elite had access to exotic animals, such as jaguars and ocelots, which were likely acquired through trade networks or inter-regional alliances.

A dietary analysis utilizing δ13C and δ15N stable isotopes conducted on human and faunal samples further supports the findings from the zooarchaeological analysis. The stable isotope analysis provides information about the carbon and nitrogen sources of the diet, allowing researchers to trace the origins of the animals consumed by the Maya elite.

The results from the dietary analysis indicate that there was a constant supply of animals for ritual and non-ritual uses. The animals were primarily obtained in the wild, with a limited reliance on domesticated species. This suggests that the Maya elite had a deep understanding of the natural environment and were skilled hunters and gatherers.

In conclusion, "From Ritual to Refuse" provides a comprehensive examination of the faunal exploitation by the Maya elite at Chinikihá, Chiapas. Through the application of zooarchaeological and statistical analyses, researchers have uncovered a shift in the use of faunal resources from a ritualistic pattern to a more generalized refuse deposit. The study sheds light on the complex relationship between the Maya elite, their political environment, and their exploitation of fauna. The findings from this research have significant implications for our understanding of ancient Maya society and their interactions with the natural world.

Weight: 872g
Dimension: 206 x 289 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803270241