A Study of the Classic Maya Hieroglyphic Inscriptions of Pusilha, Toledo District, Belize

Authors

  • Christian M. Prager

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18441/ind.v30i0.247-282

Keywords:

Maya Epigraphy, Hieroglyphic Monuments, Pusilha, southeastern Maya Lowlands, Belize, Classic Period

Abstract

This paper is concerned with an epigraphic analysis of 48 Maya hieroglyphic monuments of the archaeological site of Pusilha (Belize). The study explores the dynastic history of that ancient Maya kingdom, whose rulers were named un ajaw or "lord of avocado”. The epigraphic study yielded a total of 40 named individuals, including ten male rulers and a queen linked to the Pusilha emblem glyph. 21 of them could be placed within the local dynastic and chronological matrix spanning a historical period between 8.2.0.0.0 and 9.18.7.10.3. The analysis reveals a 220-year span of history dating from A.D. 571 to 798. Earlier historical dates prove that some Pusilha kings traced their origin back to Preclassic times and referred to legendary individuals that were most likely ancestors or even dynastic founders from foreign locations. In the Classic Period there is an uninterrupted sequence of six kings and one queen, from Ruler A to G, spanning a secured dynastic period from A.D. 571 to 731.

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Published

2013-01-01

Issue

Vol. 30 (2013)

Section

Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2013 INDIANA

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